However it would appear the England coach has relented because of adverse weather conditions ahead of the Friday night clash.

This comes two years after a similar battle when Johnson insisted the roof stay open.

However, despite the WRU bowing to his request, it made little difference as Wales ran out 23-15 winners.

The first ever international match under a closed roof also took place at the stadium in 2001 when Wales were defeated 21-13 by Australia.

And France’s memorable world cup quarter final win over New Zealand in 2007 also came under the closed roof.

Gatland argued: “It’s a phenomenal ¬atmosphere at the Millennium Stadium when the roof is closed.

“You’ve seen and heard in the past how noisy and deafening it can be.”

Johnson had earlier said: “It feels a little bit artificial when you’re playing inside.

“I would rather play with the roof open.”