Warren Gatland could be in line for a shock return to international rugby, according to the Mail Online.
The 58-year-old, who coached three consecutive Lions tours between 2013 and 2021, could add the USA to his lengthy CV that includes Ireland, Wasps, Connacht and most famously Wales.
Gatland is reportedly in pole position for the job with ‘persistent rumours’ strongly linking him with replacing incumbent Gary Gold in 2023.
The Eagles, who have also been linked with a move for current England boss Eddie Jones, will be determined to put on a good display as the hosts of the men’s showpiece in 2031. The
He will need all of his experience to succeed in this new role due to the even more limited resources than he had for so many years in charge of Wales.
Warren Gatland had also been linked with taking over England following the 2023 Rugby World Cup prior to RFU boss Bill Sweeney insisting the next head coach will be English.
DID YOU KNOW? In 2012, Warren Gatland made a cameo appearance as himself in an episode of the UK TV comedy drama Stella
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Warren Gatland: Dream Lions XV from his three tours as boss
British & Irish Lions boss Warren Gatland’s all time XV from the players he’s coached on his three tours in charge.
Warren Gatland’s dream Lions XV:
BACK-THREE:
15. Leigh Halfpenny (Wales): The fullback has deservedly picked up the player of the series crown in 2013. DIdn’t quite hit the same heights in 2017.
14. George North (Wales): What a tour in 2013! Sensational individual first Test try, a fireman’s lift on Israel Folau in the second while still holding the ball and series-sealing score in finale. He wasn’t so good in New Zealand, but he still does enough to make Gatland’s XV.
11. Anthony Watson (England): The England winger survived a reckless assault from Sonny Bill Williams in the second test against the All Blacks in 2017 to provide powerful attacking running. A fantastic tour for him
CENTRES:
13. Jonathan Davies (Wales): Confessed to feeling like Public Enemy No 1 when selected ahead of Brian O’Driscoll for Test decider. But justified selection and excellent tour summed up by most starts. Was the man of the series against the All Blacks four years later.
12. Jamie Roberts (Wales): The Lions’ best player from the 2009 tour, he charged over for final try to spark wild celebrations in the series decider four years later in Sydney.