Edwards’ Wasps departure leaves England door open

Edwards, 45, had been part of the coaching set-up at Wasps for a decade but departs following discussions with the club after the conclusion of the World Cup, where he served as Wales’ defence coach.

In a statement released with the club, Edwards said: “I would like to thank the supporters, sponsors, fellow coaches and owners of London Wasps but most of all the many great players I have had the privilege to coach in my ten years at the club.

“I will always have fond memories of my time with Wasps and feel ready and excited for some new challenges ahead of me. The experiences of the recent British and Irish Lions tour and the recent World Cup have given me more knowledge than I have ever had.”

Edwards’ future at the club had been in doubt after he revealed that he expected to return from the World Cup, where he helped Wales to a fourth-place finish, as a “free agent”.

The former rugby league star became head coach of Wasps in 2002 and guided them to four Premiership titles and two Heineken Cups.

The Rugby Football Union, which will discuss the future of team manager Martin Johnson at Twickenham today after a disappointing World Cup campaign, could move to secure the services of Edwards, either as part of a new coaching team led by Johnson or as Johnson’s successor.

It was also announced that England international Simon Shaw will soon leave Wasps, despite penning a new contract three months ago. A statement read: “Simon Shaw signed a contract extension with London Wasps in August, before leaving for the Rugby World Cup with England. Simon requested that the club did not announce this at the time for personal reasons, which the club was happy to comply with.

“Upon his return, he informed the club last week that he would like to finish his career overseas. The club are very disappointed with this news and await an official approach for the player.”