Hook is vying for the spot with Stephen Jones but with the World Cup less than eight months away, Wales coach Gatland has maintained a starring role in New Zealand is still up for grabs.

“He [Hook] gets a great chance against Ireland,” Gatland said.

“We haven't discounted him as an option as a 10 for us at any stage or even looking further down the line for the World Cup.

"Sometimes we've been hampered with injuries at full-back and sometimes in midfield and we've wanted to find a spot for him and sometimes get our best players on the field.

“And I think one of the things with James, he's 26 now and he's just developing. He's a lot more mature in his decision-making and his calmness on the field.

“And I think there's a chance for him to perhaps excel at 10.

“I think two or three years ago we sometimes felt that yes, there was a talent, but perhaps the criticism was the control of the game - there was a criticism over him at times.

“And now that he's experienced a little bit in the midfield, it could be the right time for him to move into 10.”