WALES boss Warren Gatland wants defence coach Shaun Edwards to remain part of his management team up to the next World Cup.

There has been speculation that the 49-year-old rugby league icon would move on at the end of his current contract, which expires on Sunday.

However, Gatland has confirmed that he wants to Edwards – as well as coaches Rob Howley, Robin McBryde and Neil Jenkins – to continue in the role that he has held since 2008 through to Japan.

"We have had an extremely thorough review and I have subsequently spoken to all the coaches ideally wanting them to stay in place until at least 2019," said Gatland.

"I am aware that as a group and as individuals they have all developed strongly over recent years and can accurately be described as world class.

“I want Wales to continue to benefit from that level of skill and excellence in the years ahead.

"We have already been through a significant change with the departure of our head of physical performance, Adam Beard, shortly before the Rugby World Cup, but Paul Stridgeon has proved an excellent replacement.

"It is very important to balance the need to invigorate and refresh any coaching environment with the desire to achieve continuity within a successful group.”

Wales will have to move swiftly to get Edwards to sign on the dotted line as the Wiganer has caught the eye of Six Nations rivals England and Ireland.

The defence coach is a popular figure with the Wales squad and his efforts saw them concede just three tries in five World Cup games.

“Shaun Edwards is a magnificent coach and a wonderful guy and he’s got the best out of us defensively,” said centre and defensive leader Jamie Roberts after the tournament.

“The guys putting their bodies on the line was amazing to watch. You see your fellow players really launching their bodies and sacrificing their health really for the sake of the team and the country is inspiring.”