STEVE Hansen today gives Mike Ruddock, his successor as Wales coach, a ringing endorsement after ending his time as Wales coach on a winning note against Italy.

Wales' record 44-10 victory over the Italians left them in fourth place in the Six Nations Championship, just one below world champions England with two victories after last season's whitewash.

"By and large the Welsh people are warm-hearted, and I feel I have achieved what I set out to," said Hansen yesterday after a series of presentations to him as he became the first Wales coach for two decades to see out his full term.

"Mike has been in two or three times, though he's busy with the Dragons which is understandable. But he's a quality coach, he's proved that over a number of years.

"We have tried to implement a structure that makes it seem less difficult bringing people in or out whether it's a coach or players.

"Mike will take stock and look to improve things, and I'm sure he will. He's got to have trust, we've tried to get players to take ownership so to a degree it doesn't matter who is the coach, it makes it easier.

"I'm not fearful if Mike comes in and rips it all apart, if that's what he's got to do he'll do it. But as long as he's doing what's right for Welsh rugby that's all that matters."

Ruddock officially takes over as Wales coach on May 1, though he's hoping to remain involved with the Dragons for their last three games against Connacht, Borders and Leinster.

Meanwhile, the future of Wales skills coach Scott Johnson remains uncertain, though Ruddock hopes he will stay on board.

He has been linked with the vacancy at Leicester, but Hansen poured cold water on that possibility yesterday. Johnson refused to comment.

"I very much doubt he'll be going to Leicester, I don't think that's in the equation," said Hansen.

"It'll be huge if Scott and Andrew Hore stay, it'll certainly make it easier for Mike Ruddock.

"It's a common denominator, it gives Mike security and the quality of the work they do is unsurpassed. If Wales want to be the best they've got two of the best."

It seems coaches are waiting to see what happens with the Leicester vacancy which is having an effect on the Dragons post.

But it appears major candidates like Nick Mallett, John Mitchell and Phil Davies can all be ruled out of coming to Rodney Parade.

* Wales and Ruddock face a tough start to next year's Six Nations with away games against France (4pm) and Italy (1.30pm) on February 5 and 12.

They face England (home February 26 5.30pm), Scotland (away Sunday March 13 3pm) and Ireland (home March 19 3pm).