However, the Kiwi failed to repay the faith shown in him, with three defeats and an embarrassing 16-16 draw with Fiji leaving Wales with just two wins in their last 13 Tests.

But McGeechan’s belief in Gatland’s ability – who was his assistant coach in the 2009 Lions tour to South Africa – has not wavered and he insists a stable backroom environment is key to success on the pitch.

“The teams that are most effective are the ones with the stable management and stable coach,” McGeechan said.

“I think stability is important. I think it's too easy just to say a contract finishes so we'll move on.
 

“If you look at football, we're still becoming professional if we're honest, about how we structure things and what we do.

“I think that the teams that are most effective are the ones with the stable management and stable coach.

“So I think going forward with that management team and what the players want and the direction, I think it makes huge sense.”