Welsh Rugby Union chief Martyn Phillips says he would be prepared to let Warren Gatland leave his job as Wales coach if he wanted, but insisted he expected the Lions boss to see out his current deal.

Gatland has already confirmed he will quit Wales after the 2019 World Cup, with All Blacks rugby chiefs admitting he is a candidate to replace Steve Hansen in two years' time.

There is no suggestion he will walk away from his post with Wales before 2019, and Phillips still expects him to lead Wales to the tournament in Japan.

Asked if he thought Gatland could leave early following the Lions tour, Phillips told the BBC : "I don't think he'd do it, a huge value for him is loyalty so I don't think it would happen.

"But having said that, if he did, the people you need on your team have got to want to be there.

"The job is so critical to Wales. I wouldn't want somebody doing it who doesn't want to be there.

"So if he wanted to go, he could go."

WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips and Wales coach Warren Gatland
WRU chief executive Martyn Phillips and Wales coach Warren Gatland

Gatland stands on the brink of his greatest coaching achievement ahead of Saturday's series decider against the All Blacks at Eden Park. A victory would see his coaching stock soar higher than ever before and he is sure to be a man in demand.

He previously revealed he came close to leaving Wales for Super Rugby side Chiefs following the 2011 World Cup but negotiations broke down.

The New Zealander is Wales' longest-serving head coach after taking over from Gareth Jenkins following the 2007 Rugby World Cup and has achieved great success with two Grand Slams and another Six Nations title won during his reign.

Gatland has overcome a torrent of criticism throughout the Lions tour, particularly from the Kiwi media, who have questioned whether he is up to the job and slammed his tactics.

But Phillips has been impressed with the way he has handled the pressure.

"It's his third tour so he knows what to expect, it's probably the toughest coaching job in rugby," Phillips added.

"He's had the discipline to stay above the criticism, not be drawn into it.

"He has the strong character and has retained his discipline to keep his eye on the prize of winning the Test series.

"You have to stay focused, back yourself and stay true to your instincts."