Byrne's debt to Gatland

Byrne: Feels he owes Gatland

If it wasn't for Warren, then I probably wouldn't be playing international rugby.

Lee Byrne
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Full-back Lee Byrne insists he owes his international career to Wales coach Warren Gatland.

The Ospreys ace has been in superb form - and is in contention to wear the No.15 jersey for the British and Irish Lions come the summer.

And Byrne will look to add to his growing reputation by playing a starring role against New Zealand in Cardiff on Saturday.

However Byrne claims he owes a debt of gratitude to Gatland and the Wales coaching team for his current form.

He said: "The new coaches have given me the confidence and really made me believe in myself.

"When Warren arrived, he said he didn't know anything about me, but that he would go on my performances.

Belief

"And if it wasn't for him, then I probably wouldn't be playing international rugby."

Wales go into the game have suffered 19 straight defeats against the All Blacks, with their last win coming in 1953.

However, having pushed South Africa all the way at the Millennium Stadium less than a fortnight ago, Byrne has no doubt that Wales can shock New Zealand.

He added: "We have the belief we can compete with the best, like we did against South Africa.

"New Zealand have got world-class players. It is a big ask, but we can turn them over.

"It's all about taking our chances from those line-breaks, or when we get near their line. It is also important we are patient and don't force things.

"They (New Zealand) would be a prime scalp. They are the best team in the world for me."