Edwards to sign a new Welsh contract

Mar 17 2008 by Simon Kendal-Williams, South Wales Echo

SHAUN Edwards expects to end speculation over his future with Wales by signing a new contract this week.

Having transformed the Welsh defence into the joint meanest in Six Nations history, the assistant coach hopes to continue in the post for at least the next four years.

“Forget speculation which seems to go hand-in-hand with the end of any tournament,” said Edwards.

“I want to get my future until 2012 sorted – and that future means twin contracts with Wales and Wasps running in tandem for the next three years.

“With any luck the deals can be done, dusted and signed this week.

“I’m not leaving Wasps when there are 14 months left on my current deal.

“They are ‘family’ and an extension has been negotiated.

“Subject to a few minor matters, I expect Wales will be tied up after a few more meetings. End of story.”

When Edwards accepted head coach Warren Gatland’s offer of joining him in Wales four months ago, eyebrows were raised, and not only because of the former rugby league player’s nationality.

Many observers thought the Englishman would find it impossible to juggle his job as head coach at Wasps with his defensive duties this side of the Severn Bridge, but Edwards has proved his detractors wrong.

The driving force behind a Welsh defence which was breached just twice in five games said: “It is possible to put in the miles, to be involved in international rugby successfully while coaching a top league side if both sides work to a common end.

“And that is what I want to continue, because the last couple of months have not only been enjoyable and successful, I’ve also learned a lot.”