Shaun Edwards dismisses talk of Wigan switch

Edwards joined Wasps' coaching set up 10 years ago

Wasps head coach Shaun Edwards has rejected claims he is to return to rugby league with Wigan Warriors.

The Sun reported the 44-year-old is set to rejoin his former club, where he won a host of titles as a player.

But Edwards said in a club statement: "I am fully committed to Wasps and am more determined than ever to get back into play-off contention next season.

"The signings we have made have strengthened in the right positions and next season will be a fresh start."

Wigan-born Edwards joined Wasps as backs and defence coach in 2001 and helped the club to a hat-trick of Premiership titles from 2003 to 2005 and Heineken Cup triumphs in 2004 and 2007.

He has worked as Wasps head coach since 2005 and recently signed a new two-year deal with the club.

In 2008 he took on the joint role as Wales assistant coach under former Wasps director of rugby Warren Gatland and the following year Edwards was defence coach on the British and Irish Lions tour of South Africa.

As a player he enjoyed a glittering career in the 13-man code after signing for Wigan as a 17-year-old in 1983.

He went on to make 467 appearances for the club, winning eight championship titles and nine Challenge Cups during his 14-year stay in the north west.

But his future at Wasps has been called into doubt as the Premiership side look to appoint a new full-time director of rugby following the departure of Tony Hanks midway through last season.

The club insist they are yet to fill the vacant position.