Jenkins tribute to Gatland as the Dragon breathes fire

Neil Jenkins has described head coach Warren Gatland as “an incredible person” as Wales enter the closing stages of his success-laden reign.

Gatland’s 12-year Wales tenure will end on Sunday if the Six Nations champions lose to World Cup quarter-final opponents France in Oita.

But they have their sights set on global glory after making respective semi-final and quarterfinal exits in 2011 and 2015.

Wales assistant coach and skills specialist Jenkins has been with Gatland every step of the way, playing his part in masterminding three Six Nations Grand Slams.

“His record speaks for itself as in the results, the success, the togetherness of the team and the squad and the staff,” Jenkins said.

“Warren is not just an incredible rugby coach, he is an incredible person as well. He brings so much to this environment, it’s unbelievable, really.

“It would be incredibly sad to see him go. It would be nice if we could give ourselves another fortnight in Japan for him and for everyone involved.”

Wales continued their preparations for Les Bleus in Beppu yesterday, with centre Jonathan Davies, fly-half Dan Biggar and wing George North all firmly on course to be available following recent knocks.

Jenkins added: “Everyone seems okay, and it’s a huge week for us.”

Eight years ago, Wales suffered an agonising 9-8 World Cup defeat by France. Captain Sam Warburton was sent off after just 17 minutes.

But Jenkins said: “What happened, happened. France beat us on the day and they were the better side on the day.

“You can’t dwell on what has happened. Sunday is a different game with different players.”

Warren Gatland