Jones’ experience makes him the perfect fit

LYN JONES is the perfect man to lead Russia into the 2019 World Cup, according to namesake and fellow Welshman Lynn Howells.

The former Ospreys, Dragons and London Welsh boss, who has been working with Welsh premiership outfit Neath, was recently unveiled as the unanimous choice of the Russian Rugby Federation.

The 54-year-old also has experience of working overseas having spent time in Abu Dhabi and as part of the Namibian national team coaching setup.

Howells knows from his time as head coach of Romania what it takes to be successful in Eastern Europe – his winning percentage was a fraction over 70 per cent in his six years in charge – and says Jones ticks all the right boxes.

“It is a big ask because there isn’t a lot of time before the World Cup, but I think he’s the ideal man to take them forward,” said Howells. “He is experienced and knows how to manage people well.”

Should Jones, below, take up the role, he will succeed interim head coach Mark McDermott, who has been holding the reins since Alexander Pervukhin quit during this year’s Rugby Europe Championship.

The appointment must be ratified by World Rugby, who help fund Rugby Union Russia, with a decision expected later in July. Like Russia, Romania are looking for a new head coach following Howells’ decision to quit in March. As he looks for consultancy roles in rugby, the Welshman would like to see a native in his place. He said: “I hope they appoint a Romanian coach. With no World Cup to prepare for they have eight years to get things right.

“Eugen Apkok (from the Baia Mare club) is suited to the DoR role and there are one of two younger coaches that are capable of coming in behind him.”

Another option is former France U20s head coach Thomas Lievremont who was brought in by Howells as a lineout coach.