Williams future to be settled in a month

The future of Scotland’s rugby coach Matt Williams is expected to be decided within the next month.

Williams is under pressure with Scottish rugby in turmoil amidst reports of player unrest following only one victory – over Italy – in this year’s Six Nations Championships.

The departure of Scottish Rugby Union director of rugby Ian McGeechan to Wasps was confirmed today but he hopes loose ends will be tied up before he leaves.

He expects the SRU’s review of the game to completed before he joins Clive Woodward’s coaching team on the Lions tour to New Zealand.

“I have a month to conclude everything and have it in a shape to be handed on. When I come back from the Lions I will be straight in to work here,” he said at today’s announcement of his new job with Wasps.

Asked specifically about the future of Williams, McGeechan replied that the issues involved are “more than that”.

He said: “There are a number of things we want to have resolved before the middle of May.”

He is hoping that Scottish fans do not perceive his departure as a case of deserting a sinking ship and insisted that much has been achieved during his 17 onths as director of rugby.

“The game is now in potentially its best shape from a governance point of view to go forward.

“There are a lot of lines there which can be built up and will benefit the game. A huge step forward has been made in that respect, “ he said.

McGeechan added: “I had a very enjoyable time working in Scotland with the international players.

“But, working as director of rugby, however, I missed the hands-on coaching role which is what I’m looking forward to getting back to at Wasps.”