Speaking after Wales' magnificent 38-8 demolition of Italy in Rome, Gibbs paid tribute to the outstanding Cardiff flanker.

''Man-of-the-match Martyn Williams contributed hugely to the way Wales did things,'' Gibbs told BBC Sport.

''He is one of the best players on the planet.''

Gibbs was also impressed with the contribution of Wales' try-scoring second row pairing of Brent Cockbain and Robert Sidoli.

''Both second rows also had huge games,'' Gibbs said.

'' Brent Cockbain and Robert Sidoli were very industrious and you need to have your front five fronting up when you are away from home.

''As well as all the hard work both players put into the scrummage and line-out, they were there on the receiving end to go over for the tries.''

However, despite Wales' impressive opening to their RBS 6 Nations campaign, Gibbs was keen to play down the inevitable high levels of expectation in the Principality.

''Despite starting the championship with two wins, it is still a bit early to start talking about the Grand Slam,'' he said.