Franco Smith, the head coach of Glasgow Warriors, has acknowledged his desire to return to coaching internationally, which has stoked rumors that he is interested in the Wales position.
Following Wales’ 14th consecutive Test loss, they fired Warren Gatland last week, making Smith a strong contender for the head coach role.
Glasgow defeated Dragons 45–20 in Wales on Sunday, solidifying their hold on second place in the United Rugby Championship standings under the leadership of the former Italy head coach, whose contract with Scottish Rugby expires next year.
Smith led Glasgow to the URC title last season and, addressing the Wales rumours before kick-off on Sunday, the South African admitted he has his heart set on a national team job.
Asked again after the match about the Wales interest, Smith added: “I know there is a lot of talk, so I’ll leave it at that.”
Smith has fond memories of Wales having spent a season with Newport during his playing days while his son, Franco junior, was born in the city.
“There are good people who live here and I was very well welcomed,” he said. “Tony Brown, the previous owner here, was very good to me and my family when Franco junior was born here.
“We had a fantastic time here and I have fond memories.”
