Scarlets stay in the Somerville race
Thu, 08 May 2008 12:30
Llanelli Scarlets Chief Executive Stuart Gallacher denied the region's hopes of securing the services of All Blacks prop Greg Somerville have been dashed with Director of Rugby Phil Davies's departure last week.
"I spoke to Greg twice this morning, and last week, to keep him abreast of events," said Gallacher.
"Obviously he wanted to know what has happened.
"Our dealings have been on-going but I also understand there are clubs in France and one in England which are also chasing him. Greg is a family man and any move is a big move for him so he's got to do what he feels is right. I hope to have an answer either way next week."
Gallacher fronted up to the media where he also denied 'player power' had anything to do with the former Director of Rugby's departure.
"Player power is one of these new buzz words," he explained.
"In a team of 30 players or more, you are always going to get players who are disappointed if they are not playing, that is the nature of the beast. I'm aware of the all the rumours [about player power] but I can honestly say no player has come to me with any concerns. There has been no concentrated campaign by the players."
He also confirmed the Scarlets have sought permission from the Welsh Rugby Union (WRU) to talk to Nigel Davies in regards to taking over the vacant head coach post.
"It is obviously correct to say I have spoken to Roger Lewis [WRU group chief executive] to speak to Nigel Davies, but I have also spoken to half a dozen other people who are interested in the role. We will evaluate all those and when we come to a decision we will announce it."
Gallacher added that he hoped to be in a position to make an announcement about the Scarlets coaching line-up next week
He said the region was grateful to Phil for what he had achieved for the Scarlets; particularly in his first season and that the Chairman (Huw Evans) personally thanked Davies for his past contribution.
He added that Davies's departure agreement is being handled "very amicably".
He explained the region had planned to announce Davies's departure as Director of Rugby at the end of the season, but confidential leaks to the media had put the Scarlets in "an impossible situation" and the board had to react accordingly.
