Shaun Edwards in advanced talks to become new Dragons head coach
CARDIFF, WALES - FEBRUARY 11: Sean Edwards the defence coach of Wales looks on as his team warm up prior to kickoff during the RBS Six Nations match between Wales and England at the Principality Stadium on February 11, 2017 in Cardiff, Wales. (Photo by David Rogers/Getty Images)
Shaun Edwards is set to become the new head coach of the Dragons, but uncertainty remains over the length of a deal due to his agreement with Wigan Warriors.
The Super League club signed Edwards to a head coach contract to start in 2020 following next year’s Rugby World Cup, but that hasn’t stopped the Dragons from approaching the Wales defence guru over succeeding Bernard Jackman.
Matters are further complicated by Edwards’ involvement with PRO14 rivals Ospreys this season as a defence consultant, but it is understood the Welsh region are working on the finer details of a deal ahead of an announcement on Monday.
His involvement with the Wales national team as Warren Gatland‘s right-hand man would see the team take priority in a World Cup, meaning an assistant would take charge of the Dragons’ fixtures during the Six Nations which begins on February 1.
Run by the WRU for the past 18 months, the Dragons parted company with Jackman after conceding a total of 107 in heavy losses to Leinster and Northampton Saints.
Results which continued a wretched season for the Rodney Parade side who lie sixth in the Conference B, while seeing their European hopes dashed by the 48-14 defeat to Northampton.
Interim coach Ceri Jones is preparing the team for when they host pool 1 leaders Clermont Auvergne on Saturday, with the forwards coach suggesting he doesn’t expect to be in charge beyond the match.
