Following Warren Gatland's departure as Wales manager, widespread reports indicated Ireland interim head coach Simon Easterby was the favourite to take over.

However, Cardiff Rugby's Matt Sherratt was granted permission to join Wales for the remainder of the Six Nations and is now overseeing the squad on an interim basis. In light of speculation, Easterby addressed the rumours ahead of Saturday's meeting between the two nations, insisting no discussions took place with the WRU.

The 49-year-old expressed being content with his current role and denied having any knowledge of the links. He said: "I didn't know that I had been linked, but of course, there's been speculation and that's all it is - speculation.

"It's not something I can control. I love what I do here. I've been in this position with the team for a long time and I'm very fortunate with the people I get to work with both management and players and for me, that's a dream job."

Since taking over the Irish side in 2024, Easterby has already received calls from other teams. In his debut match as head coach, he led Ireland to a victory over England.

Despite the inquiries, Easterby stressed that his focus remained in his current role. He added: "Right now, this is my only focus and whatever happens in the future... in a year you could lose your job and we know in sport it's fairly fluid around people moving from thing to thing.

"Whatever's gone on, I've had no contact from the WRU, so for me it's all guns blazing towards Cardiff on Saturday and making sure me and the other coaches prepare the team in the right way. Whatever speculation goes on outside of that is outside of my control."

The long-term goals of British & Irish Lions manager Andy Farrell, who temporarily stepped aside from his post in November, will significantly influence Easterby's future with Ireland. His immediate responsibility is to maintain the Irish side's dominance in the 2025 Six Nations after taking charge as Farrell's temporary replacement.

Even though Farrell is expected to return after the Lions campaign, Easterby has a worthy opportunity to leave his mark on the Irish squad. However, it remains to be seen whether Easterby will return to his previous role as part of Ireland's backroom staff, or whether he will seek new opportunities elsewhere.