Gatland is keen for Shaun Edwards to take up a role with the Lions

Gatland has been linked with the job for the 2009 tour, although former South Africa coach Jake White has also expressed an interest in the post.

"Probably an advantage there'd be over Graham Henry is that I've been in the northern hemisphere so long," he said.

"Perhaps I understand the teams better. It's flattering to be mentioned."

Henry coached the Lions on their 2001 tour of Australia, but saw his side lose the Test series 2-1.

Gatland's CV includes stints as Ireland head coach and Wasps director of rugby as well a return to New Zealand with Waikato before taking the Wales reins.

The Welsh Rugby Union have confirmed they would consider an approach for Gatland's services, but may be mindful of the fall-out from Henry's time as Lions coach.

Gatland said: "The Lions need to consider whether they go for someone local. I suppose if we win a few more games everything is possible.

"But my first job is Wales and making sure this role is done and there's development to get Welsh rugby going. I have to think long term to the 2011 World Cup.

"That's my number one priority. I wouldn't consider the Lions until everything here is in place."

It's more important to get Shaun Edwards involved with the Lions than myself Wales coach Warren Gatland

Gatland has entered the frame on the back of victories over England and Scotland but also because there are few obvious home-grown options.

England head coach Brian Ashton has already declared he will not be available for the Lions trip to South Africa, while Eddie O'Sullivan's stock has fallen since Ireland's poor World Cup campaign.

Wasps director of rugby Ian McGeechan is one of the favourites to be involved, 12 years after leading the Lions to their famous series win over the Springboks in 1997.

Both McGeechan and Gatland would bring the added bonus of a close working relationship with Shaun Edwards, the Wasps head coach who took up a part-time role with Wales to further his ambitions of being involved in the 2009 tour.

"It's one of the reasons he's taken the position with Wales because he'd dearly love to be involved with the Lions," said Gatland. "It will obviously help that we play South Africa on a couple of occasions before the Lions tour.

"At this stage it's more important to get Shaun involved with the Lions than myself. I would love for him to have that opportunity before myself."