Howley to assist Lions

The Wales interim head coach has been named in Warren Gatland's coaching team alongside England assistant coaches Graham Rowntree and Andy Farrell.

Gatland was pleased to finalise the core of his backroom staff and is confident it has all the ingredients to give the Lions the best chance of claiming a first series win since 1997.

"I am delighted with today's appointments and confident that Rob, Graham, Andy and myself can come together quickly to face one of the hardest rugby challenges," said Gatland.

"Lions Tours are unique as we have to mold together players from four different countries in an incredibly short space of time."

"We have no illusion as to the hard work required but we have spoken of the challenges and truly believe that as a coaching team we can provide the players with the support and environment needed for victory in Australia.

"We will also discuss over the coming weeks the requirement for any further technical assistance."

Gatland and Lions Tour Manager Andy Irvine also announced their main strength and conditioning, analysis and medicial staff.

Again Wales have contributed heavily with WRU Head of Physical Performance Adam Beard heading up the strength and conditioning team.

WRU performance analysts Rhys Long and Rhodri Bown will also tour with the Lions, as will National Medical Performance Manager Prav Mathema.

"Today is an exciting day and the next chapter in the 2013 Tour story," said Irvine.

"The selection of the coaching staff is significant, this experienced trio have proven track records and we are delighted to have them on board."

"Importantly I believe we now have in the Tour management team, in the areas of coaching, logistics, media, performance analysis and medical, continuity from previous Tours especially 2009.

"This is important as they all understand the challenges that lie ahead and the experience gained in South Africa will be essential as we head to Australia next year."

Management Team appointments to date:

CEO: John Feehan

Tour Manager: Andy Irvine

Operations:
Director of Tour Operations: Guy Richardson
Logistics Officer: Gerard Carmody
Baggage Master: Patrick O'Reilly (Rala)
Lawyer: Max Duthie

Security:
Head of Security: Neil Strang

Coaching and Conditioning:
Head Coach: Warren Gatland
Assistant Coach: Rob Howley
Assistant Coach: Graham Rowntree
Assistant Coach: Andy Farrell
Head of Strength & Conditioning: Adam Beard
Fitness Coach: Paul Stridgeon
Head of Performance Analysis: Rhys Long
Performance Analyst: Rhodri Bown

Medical:
Head of Medical: Dr James Robson
Physiotherapist: Prav Mathema
Physiotherapist: Phil Pask

Media and Communications:
Head of Media & Communications: Greg Thomas
Media Manager: Dave Barton
Communications Manager: Christine Connolly