HOWLEY HAILS ‘STRONGEST EVER’ WALES

vATTACK coach Rob Howley reckons this is the strongest Wales squad he has ever been involved in.

A win over South Africa on Saturday for Warren Gatland’s men would make it nine in a row and their best run since 1999.

“I’ve never experienced a squad with the strength in depth we have,” said Howley (above).

“Warren Gatland has built depth over the last 18 months by giving players opportunities, especially when he rested our British Lions for the Argentina tour.

“It is important that process continues on Saturday.

“We have a lot of confidence and self-belief in the way that we are playing and the way the players have taken their opportunities has been pleasing.”

Despite their winning run, Howley insists the pressure is on Wales to avoid slipping up as they target a first ever autumn clean sweep.

He said: “We are going for our ninth win in a row, which is a pretty special achievement.

“But as a player you don’t want to be part of a losing team when you have won the last eight.”