Lavery guarded on Gatland position

IRFU president Billy Lavery yesterday refused to look beyond Saturday week's visit of Scotland to Lansdowne Road when asked about Warren Gatland's position as Ireland coach.

Gatland is contracted until the end of the Six Nations Championship and in response to the 50-18 defeat against England, Lavery said: "It's all very disappointing, for the management, the players and the public at large. How do we move forward? By gaining a win on Saturday week and to do that by going forward together.

"After last Saturday we have to form a true intent to achieve victory against Scotland," added Lavery. "It's as simple as that, and so now all appropriate preparations have to be made to achieve that goal. I said that at Saturday's post-match dinner and I don't mind repeating that."

The IRFU president said there was "no question" of the union removing Gatland from his position as Irish coach, and added: "I look forward to Saturday week. When things are not going well it's important to try and get the show back on the road, and by everyone sticking together."

Nevertheless, when pressed, Lavery said: "I'm not going to look beyond Saturday week. I'm confident that there is sufficient ability in that side to win." All of which suggests Gatland has his foot raised against the counter of the last chance saloon.

Gatland said on Saturday he had no intention of quitting and team manager Donal Lenihan said yesterday: "We've got to keep the head up. We've got to present a package to the players on Monday to go out and beat Scotland."

Gatland and his assistant Eddie O'Sullivan will review the match video today, after which the management will meet on Wednesday before announcing an enlarged squad for the Scottish game on Thursday.

Of the casualties before Twickenham, Jeremy Davidson is definitely going to play for his club Castres at the weekend, and it is hoped that Ronan O'Gara will also turn out for his club. However, the management will be monitoring the progress of last weekend's casualties, Bob Casey (ankle) and Shane Horgan (knee), over the next few days.