Former Wales and Lions coach Graham Henry could make a shock return to the top of Welsh rugby.

BBC Wales Sport understands that Cardiff are considering offering Henry a part-time coaching role.

The New Zealander would work as a coaching consultant to assist his former Wales captain Dai Young.

Young is favourite to take over at the Arms Park, if current coach Rudy Joubert returns to South Africa to work for Super 12 side the Blue Bulls.

Henry left the Wales job under a cloud after a record defeat against Ireland in last season's Six Nations Championship.

But despite the acrimonious departure, Henry's spell in charge brought some of the best results in Welsh rugby history.

He is still regarded as one of the most forward-thinking and experienced coaches in world rugby.

Cardiff's enthusiasm to get him on board is therefore easy to understand.

Mentor

Young, who has a clause in his contract promising he will take over as head coach at the Arms Park when Joubert goes, is desperately short on coaching experience.

He certainly has the respect of the Cardiff players and plenty of strong coaching ideas, but would certainly benefit from having a knowledgeable mentor.

Henry has been working for the Auckland Rugby Union in his native New Zealand since June.

He still has over a year to run on that contract, but the Cardiff job would only involve flying visits to offer advice, and would therefore not clash with his main employment.