Gatland awaiting official Lions approach

Lions Pride: McGeechan has held talks with Gatland

Having spoken with Ian McGeechan last week, Warren Gatland is now awaiting an official approach with regards to a coaching role on the 2009 British and Irish Lions tour to South Africa.

Gatland, along with fellow Wales coaches Shaun Edwards and Rob Howley have long been touted for roles with the Lions next year.

However, this is the first time that anything has amounted to more than speculation, as Gatland revealed he is now awaiting an official offer.

"I've had a talk with Ian McGeechan, expressing an interest," Gatland told Scrum V.

"The process after that is a formal approach from the Lions to the Welsh Rugby Union. I don't think they've done that yet."

Gatland is happy that the first steps in the process are now under way, and is relishing the chance to be involved with such a prestigious side.

"The first steps are under way in terms of the process but there's a few more before it's actually finalised," he added.

"It's a great honour and I'd love to have that opportunity."

With WRU Chief Executive Roger Lewis having already given Gatland his blessing it now seems a certainty that the New Zealander will be involved in some capacity.

Having seen Graham Henry suffer a 2-1 reversal on the 2001 Lions tour, which subsequently led to a souring of his relationship with Welsh players, Gatland is keen to avoid any such situation.

"I know there's been a bit of criticism with Graham Henry in terms of his involvement," said Gatland.

"But I've spoken to Ian McGeechan and he said his involvement with the Lions while coaching Scotland was a real positive.

"It's a great opportunity to tour with one of the real icons of rugby in terms of the Lions and for me it would be a great highlight."

But he added the running of the Wales side who are due to tour North America around the same time has to be in place.

Blues coach Dai Young has already ruled himself out of a caretaker role.

"The Blues is my job and I certainly wouldn't risk affecting that job by being on the Wales tour," he said.

"I wouldn't do anything to risk the support of the players here towards myself."