Phillips wants an extra incentive for his Neath players

Neath boss Rowland Phillips believes the Welsh Premiership winners should be rewarded by entry to the European Challenge Cup.

Phillips told Scrum V Neath and the five best Premiership finishers should be given that chance.

He says Wales and its regions would benefit from better-developed players, but is unlikely to gain WRU backing.

"We'd like the extra incentive of the European Challenge Cup and experience of playing abroad," said Phillips

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The WRU is conducting a review into the value of the Premiership to the national game and Phillips believes the division's top six clubs would make an ideal platform for developing young talent.

He said: "The frustrating thing is that you achieve your goals, maintain and improve your standards. But you can't go anywhere because there's nowhere to go.

"This has been noticed and mentioned with regards to a restructuring of the Premiership, whatever or whenever that's going to be.

"They could go to places like Romania, France and Italy, which to me is part of that development as well."

A Welsh Rugby Union spokesman said: "A thorough review of Premiership rugby is currently being concluded and everyone involved will have to consider its full range of findings before discussing any fresh strategic or operational changes within the division.

"Neath have enjoyed a great season and their ambition to continue to test themselves at the very highest of levels is particularly encouraging to all involved in Welsh rugby."