The identity of the Wales head coach at the end of the coming week remains in the balance ahead of a seismic few days.
Wayne Pivac is hanging on by a thread as a Welsh Rugby Union review into a disastrous autumn campaign concludes early next week. The most likely outcome remains that Pivac will be dismissed, with the union hopeful of securing Warren Gatland as his successor on a short term deal until the end of next year's Rugby World Cup.
But events at Twickenham could have a huge bearing on the outcome as Eddie Jones' own tenure looks to be doomed amid an RFU review into his performance. Gatland is also one of the candidates English bosses are strongly considering amid reports of discussions taking place.
Sign up: Get the latest rugby news sent straight to your inbox for free with our daily newsletter
If Gatland were to be offered and accept the England job it would leave the WRU in a very difficult position. Gatland is clearly the number one contender to step back into the Wales job on an interim basis and would instantly command the respect and support of the players and fans. It would also allow Welsh rugby bosses the time to secure a long term successor after the World Cup.
Were Gatland's name to be removed from the equation, some of the other contenders that have been discussed in the WRU corridors of power are far less likely to get immediate public backing. They include current Scotland defence coach Steve Tandy, Gatland's former assistant Rob Howley and former Scarlets coach Brad Mooar.
One source has told WalesOnline the name of former Dragons chief Dean Ryan has also been put forward for discussion despite him recently being removed from his role as director of rugby at the WRU-owned Dragons. He technically remains on the payroll having not yet officially left.
Pivac is expected to learn his fate within a matter of days and has not given up hope of remaining in situ. He believes he still has the support of key senior players whose views are thought to have been sought as part of the ongoing review.
Gatland is believed to have left the UK and returned to New Zealand after spending November working for Amazon Prime and attending a number of personal engagements in Wales. He is due to return to his job as Chiefs director of rugby on Monday but what comes next remains to be seen.
England boss Jones is scheduled to meet RFU bosses on Monday in what will be his final chance to save his job.
Read more:
Dragons rescue bonus point in defeat to champions with stunning second-half comeback
Joe Marler leaves Sarra Elgan Easterby incredulous in awkward live TV interview
Sam Warburton says Warren Gatland is 'perfect fit' for England amid RFU and WRU talks
Today's rugby news as ex-Wales captain tells WRU to keep Wayne Pivac and take over regions
