WALES coach Mike Ruddock (pictured) has admitted that he is disappointed only ten of Wales' Grand Slam winning heroes have been selected by Sir Clive Woodward for the Lions tour to New Zealand.

But Ruddock, who may yet be involved on that tour, has reminded everyone that before the Six Nations, many pundits were selecting potential Lions teams that included NO Wales players.

He explained: "We are delighted for the players involved, it is a huge milestone for them, but having said that we would have liked a few more in the squad, but I'm sure it was a very difficult decision right up to the end.

"It is a great opportunity to play a higher standard of rugby and it looks a very strong squad with a certain emphasis on the style of play that saw England win the World Cup, with a big strong forward division and some exciting backs.

"But in saying that, we still have the article pinned on our notice board with the pundits potential Lions team that included no Wales players at all. We have made a big leap forward as a team and a nation since then and although we would have liked to have had a few more in, we must reflect on a positive year."

Ruddock also gave his strongest hint yet that he is likely to be involved in the tour. Wales visit North America and Canada but will be finished before the first Test in Christchurch on June 25.

That leaves the door ajar for Ruddock to join up with the Lions, something Woodward is very keen on. Ruddock's priority is the Wales tour, but is looking to link with the Lions if it is logistically possible, with WRU chief David Moffett giving his backing to the idea.

Ruddock explained: "I have spoken to Sir Clive who made it known to me that he would like me to consider going with the party. I told him that my priority was the Wales tour but I would certainly like to explore the possibility of joining the tour if the opportunity arose.

"If it is a hands-on role or just as an observer, I feel it will be of benefit to me and to Wales rugby if I could be in the camp."