Henry pays tribute to Pickering

Mutual respect: David Pickering (L) and Graham Henry

Graham Henry paid tribute to David Pickering on Monday after the former Wales captain resigned from his post as Wales team manager.

Pickering acted as assistant to coach Henry for three years during a period of upheaval in Welsh rugby, but has stepped down citing "family and business reasons" for relinquishing the role.

"He's been immense," Henry told BBC Radio Wales. "It's behind the scenes stuff really, getting the stability back into Welsh rugby.

I am very keen to ensure that David's influence can still be felt within Welsh rugby for years to come

Graham Henry
Wales coach

"The contracts for the (international) players, the bringing together of the clubs and the Welsh Rugby Union, the new training centre at the Vale of Glamorgan Hotel - he's been superb.

"As far as I'm concerned, he's been such a supportive person that I think it will be very difficult for me to do the job without having somebody like David."

Pickering broke the news after helping Wales to a 33-23 victory over Italy in the Six Nations championship on Sunday.

Candidates

"David has made things happen," Henry said. "It is disappointing news, but I understand his dilemma and I am very keen to ensure that his influence can still be felt within Welsh rugby for years to come.

"His steel-like determination to deliver will be important if Welsh rugby is to continue its recent development."

Henry said that he already has somebody in mind to take over the role but was keeping it to himself.

There are two possible candidates already within the WRU structure who could fit the bill.

Alan Phillips already fulfills a similar role as Wales 'A' team manager and has the advantage of being on the WRU general committee - one of Henry's preferences for whoever fills Pickering's shoes.

The other possibility is former Wales wing Nigel Walker, who has been earning praise as Pickering's number two.