Wales forced into changes
Scarlets centre Scott Williams has been called in to the Wales squad for the forthcoming Tests against Australia, Georgia, New Zealand and South Africa.
Williams' inclusion comes following Tyler Morgan's ankle injury, sustained in the Pro14 fixture for the Dragons against the Ospreys last weekend.
His injury will preclude him from taking any part in any of the year-end Tests.
Gatland believes, despite the latest setback, his team are in a good place as they prepare for their year-end campaign.
"I am very excited,"Gatland said.
"We spoke last week about the countdown for the next two years," the coach added.
"We are excited about the group of players who are coming in with the five new caps from the mid-year Tests. I'm as excited as ever, I need to reiterate that.
"There was speculation six months ago that I would do the Lions and am not come back, I'm not sure where that came from."
Gatland named five uncapped players in his 36-man squad which he announced last week.
The New Zealand-born boss, who led the British & Irish Lions to an historic 1-all series draw with the All Blacks in June and July, believes Wales have are building nicely ahead of the next World Cup.
"I need to stress that we can win the World Cup. I'm really excited about the next two years. I'm committed to Wales and I need to reiterate that," Gatland said, looking ahead to 2019.
"We know we have to stay healthy and not pick up too many injuries, but what's exciting about this group of players is their age-profile and their experience. We go into the World Cup campaign with a good balance.
"Apart from New Zealand, World Cups are traditionally won by teams with an age-profile of late 20's to early 30's and that's exactly what we will be."
Schedule:
Saturday, November 11: v AUSTRALIA (17.15 local time and GMT)
Saturday, November 18: v GEORGIA (14.30 local time and GMT)
Saturday, November 25: v NEW ZEALAND (17.15 local time and GMT)
Saturday, December 2: v SOUTH AFRICA (14.30 local time and GMT)
