Shaun Edwards to join Ospreys as consultant

Ospreys have confirmed that Wales defence coach Shaun Edwards will join the Pro14 club in the upcoming season in a consultancy role.

Earlier, it was reported that the 58-year-old will work with both Dragons and Ospreys for the 2018/19 season apart from his national duties but the Liberty Stadium outfit has now announced that Edwards will work exclusively as a consultant.

"Shaun is a world class coach," said Ospreys head coach Allen Clarke.

“I wanted to bring him in because we know his strengths and how they will complement the existing coaching team here at the Ospreys.

"His knowledge and experience is unrivalled and his CV speaks for itself. I’m delighted to have him working alongside myself and, in particular, Brad Davis, complementing the excellent work that Brad is doing with the squad.

“He knows a large number of the squad already through their involvement with the national set-up and has a good understanding of what we want to achieve day to day and across the season."

Edwards also has worked on a similar role with Cardiff Blues last season which saw them win the European Rugby Challenge Cup.

"It is a great opportunity to work alongside some great players, a lot of which I know from their time with Wales," said Edwards of his role with Ospreys.

"But also to work with players hands on who I know a lot about but haven't been out on the training pitch with.

"The Ospreys are a region with a lot of history and pride and under Allen they are ambitious and I'm looking forward to playing my part."

Edwards has already announced that he will end a 11-year association with Welsh Rugby Union with the 2019 World Cup in Japan to take charge of Wigan Warriors.

"It is great for the game in Wales Shaun is linking up with the Ospreys for the forthcoming season," a WRU spokesperson said.