Lions coach Gatland to face surgery

British & Irish Lions head coach Warren Gatland is to undergo a minor operation to his right heel on Friday.

Gatland fractured both heels during a fall at his house in Waikato in April, delaying his appointment to lead next year’s tour to Australia. The Lions insist the surgery is part of the 49-year-old New Zealander’s rehabilitation programme.

“The operation to his right heel, which was broken in his accident, will see Warren enter hospital on Friday,” read a statement released by the Lions. “The procedure will entail treatment to an area of damaged and blistered skin. It is expected he will spend a few days in hospital after the procedure.”

Gatland was appointed Lions coach having led Wales to the semi-finals of the World Cup and then a second Six Nations Grand Slam in four years. It was initially feared that his accident in Waikato might threaten his involvement with the Lions.