Warren Gatland: Wales head coach decision divides pundits

Ex-Wales captain Ken Owens believes the decision will provide some short-term certainty with the Six Nations squad being named in mid-January.

“They [the WRU] have obviously done a comprehensive review and a decision has been made,” said Owens.

“At least there is a bit of stability now going into the Six Nations. Everyone knows where they are at.”

Owens believes the problem lies deeper than the Wales coach.

“Until we look at the whole structure and system in Welsh rugby we are probably going to be in a similar sort of position,” added Owens.

Tierney said Gatland’s position will be reviewed after the Six Nations but refused to state what his performance targets were.

Former Ospreys head coach Shaun Holley was happy to outline what he expected by saying Wales should be targeting three wins in next year’s tournament.

“Abi Tierney has mentioned data a lot,” said Holley.

“You can talk about as much data as you want but it’s winning that matters.

“For me, three wins [would be success] – two at home and nick an away win.

“You can’t be happy just to nick a win against Italy.”