White open to working with Lions

World Cup-winning coach Jake White has opened the door to helping the British and Irish Lions next year for their tour of his native South Africa.

White, who guided the Springboks to World Cup glory in 2007, told The Times of South Africa that he was looking to get back into coaching soon and that, after the Springboks failed to offer him a position, he turned instead to the Lions.

White said: "I made it clear to South African rugby that I wanted to be involved in helping them because I feel I have a lot to give back to rugby. But they haven't expressed an interest in using me. I chatted to (Lions coach) Ian McGeechan last week about the possibility of working with the Lions and it's something I would consider."

He added: "Rugby is a professional game and if there are no opportunities that suit me in South Africa, I might look at some other options.

"I've made it clear to McGeechan that I'm actively in the market for a job in rugby and I believe I can add value. But it's up to him and the Lions organisation to decide if they need me."

White plans to link up with a British club on a temporary basis in the next few months. Options exist at either Saracens or Wasps.

"Through my great friend Eddie Jones (director of rugby at Saracens), I'm slowly finding my way back into the game," White said.

"Eddie advised me not to take the first offer that comes my way, but to have a look around and see what complements me as a coach.

"Saracens have offered me a contract to work there for a week or two. McGeechan, at Wasps, has offered me a similar deal.

"Now I'm suddenly faced with a choice, which was something I didn't have, or didn't seek, for almost a year."