British & Irish Lions flanker Dan Lydiate admits Warren Gatland’s criticism had the desired effect after Wales’ thumping 27-6 victory over France on Friday.
Tries from fellow Lions George North and Sam Warburton helped equal Wales biggest ever victory over Les Bleus since World War II.
It came in stark contrast to Wales’ previous outing against Ireland which resulted in a 26-3 defeat in Dublin and prompted a few home truths from Gatland.
Lydiate was back to his best on Friday, topping the tackle count with 14, and the Racing Metro back row revealed Gatland’s words had resonated with him.
“We are just thankful Gats gave us another chance,” he said.
“He did speak to me, and rightly so, and it's not a nice thing to hear off your coach, but Gats has always been honest with his players.
“I would rather be told than talked about and not be told.
“That's the level we are at and I want it to continue that way.
“You want to know where you're at. If you deserve praise you get it, and if you deserve a kick up the backside, you get that as well.
“It is just one game [the France win], and we have to build on this now going into a big match up at Twickenham.”
