Howley was selected for the 1997 and 2001 Lions tours as a player

Wales assistant coach Rob Howley says he keeps having to pinch himself after being named as attack coach for the Lions' summer tour of South Africa.

The former Wales scrum-half, 38, will join Wales coach Warren Gatland and defence coach Shaun Edwards as part of Ian McGeechan's staff.

"When Geech phoned me, I was absolutely ecstatic to be part of the coaching team that has been announced," he said.

"It's a very privileged position to be in. I certainly pinch myself."

Howley's coaching career started in June 2005 when he became the Cardiff Blues' backs coach.

He then split his time between Wales and the Blues earlier this year before taking up a full-time post with his country in May.

"The last 12 months have been pretty special with the Grand Slam victory, being involved with Wales and having a call from Ian McGeechan," said Howley.

"Throughout my playing career I worked hard and I've carried that on as a coach.

"I know it's been a very short career but I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with the Blues and being involved with Wales.

"Sometimes in life, you have to be lucky, work hard and get breaks.

"To have the opportunity to work with one of the Lions greatest coaches, I'm thoroughly looking forward to it."