Time for young Dragons to deliver, says coach

And the Dragons coach reckons it’s time for the next generation to come of age and shine at Rodney Parade this season. He said: “We’ve got so many kids on the way that I feel half pregnant.

“We’ve produced several players through our academy over the last year and we’re extremely proud of that. We want that to continue.

“If I only played senior players, such as Colin Charvis, then that would stop the process of bringing through the younger guys. So I know I have got to play them.”

Twelve of the Dragons’ 37-man squad this season have yet to celebrate their 22nd birthday, but that did not stop Turner naming five of his “kids” to face Saracens last Friday night.

And he expects the likes of Wales Under-20s pair Ashley Smith and Jason Tovey, rising star Dan Lydiate and Australian import Rory Sidey to make an immediate impact this season.

Turner said: “We’re building slowly and I believe we’ve got a team which is developing in the right direction.

“We’ve got to keep up with the best and that why it’s been all change here this summer.

“We’ve brought in new signings, a new captain in Tom Willis, a new stadium is on it’s way and we’ve got new training facilities at Cardiff University.

“I made sure the players were aware of the changes because some people in Wales don’t like change.”

The new generation of players emerging at Rodney Parade are likely to make British Lions and Wales veteran Colin Charvis a sideline figure this season.

Charvis, 35, has taken over as defence coach and will only be used as emergency cover.

Turner said: “Colin has only just started his coaching career and he’s really enjoying the role so far. That’s the route we’re going down this season and he will only play for us if we get a lot of injuries.”

Yet he may be needed soon than expected with the Dragons facing an injury crisis ahead of the season kick-off.
Eight players are struggling to be fit for the opening game against Glasgow on September 5.