Wales Have Drafted In A New Coach For The Six Nations

Wales have brought in ex-Northampton coach Alex King for the Six Nations as their new attack coach.

With Warren Gatland on a year-long sabbatical as British & Irish Lions coach, interim boss Rob Howley has brought in his former Wasps teammate King on a short-term deal.

King left his post with Northampton back in October and has signed for Montpellier ahead of next season but will bring a wealth of experience to Wales’ Six Nations bid.

He completes Howley’s coaching team for the 2017 tournament with incumbents Robin McBryde (forwards), Shaun Edwards (defence) and Neil Jenkins (skills) already in place.

“We are really pleased to bring in Alex for the Six Nations, but we would also like to thank Matt for all his hard work and effort during the autumn,” said Howley.

Alex is an experienced, highly-respected attack coach and we are delighted to have him as part of our team.

“We believe he will add a lot of value to what will be another very competitive Six Nations and we are delighted to have secured the services of such a sought after coach on a full time basis for the campaign.

“Matt was excellent for us during the autumn campaign and we were really pleased with his contribution. Moving forward, Matt felt the shared role wouldn’t be the best solution, which we respect, and we wish him well back at the Blues.”

King added:

“This is a hugely exciting opportunity for me personally and, to be able to join such an experienced and established coaching set up ahead of such a major and important tournament, is an incredibly exciting prospect.

“It is a real privilege to be asked and I am now really looking forward to meeting up with the coaches, the rest of the management team and particularly the talented Welsh players.”

Wales open their Six Nations campaign against Italy at the Stadio Olimpico on the 5th of February.