'He's not going anywhere': URC side stands firm on the SA coach's future

SPOTLIGHT: Glasgow Warriors seem confident that they can hold onto their head coach.

Franco Smith, who guided Glasgow to the United Rugby Championship title last year, is one of the candidates to become Wales’ new head.

Warren Gatland left his role earlier this month by “mutual agreement” after a record run of Test defeats. Cardiff coach Matt Sherratt took temporary charge for the side’s remaining games in the Six Nations.

According to reports, former Australia coach Michael Cheika has emerged as the favourite for the Wales job, but Smith and Ireland interim boss Simon Easterby are still in the frame.

However, Glasgow assistant coach Nigel Carolan made it clear that Smith still has big plans for the Scottish club going forward.

“He’s done wonderful work since he’s been here,” Carolan told The Scotsman.

“If his name gets bandied around in the media then good and that’s down to the work that he’s done and the position of Glasgow Warriors. That’s helped Scottish rugby as well.

“He’s very coy, and he’s committed to Glasgow Warriors.

“At the moment, as far as we’re concerned, he’s not going anywhere.

“He’s making massive plans here for the future. He has told me his plans are to stay here.

“At the moment he’s 100 percent committed to Glasgow Warriors.”

Source: The Scotsman