Backs Coach Barry Maddocks has backed talented centre Tom Griffiths to continue to impress in the second half of the season.
Griffiths made the move to Rodney Parade from Saracens last summer but injury delayed his regional debut until the European clash with Castres Olympique in November.
The 24-year-old has since clocked up six starts for Dragons - with a Guinness PRO14 debut against Ospreys last month.
And Maddocks believes the Gloucester-born back - who qualifies for Wales - is now beginning to show his true quality and ability thanks to a run of games.
“We knew Tom’s ability because he has been playing at Saracens and around that kind of squad,” said Maddocks.
“He was unfortunate with injuries during his time in England and has had a couple of ins and outs with us; he just needs a run of games now.
“Tom is very talented, has an eye for a gap and is a good distributor. He is a good link player for us," he added.
“We’re now hoping to see more from Tom over this next block of games. The main thing is getting that run of games. His talent is obviously there.”
Griffiths showed his adaptability in the European defeat away at Castres when a surprise late withdrawal from Adam Warren saw him switch from the 12 jersey to 13.
And Maddocks was pleased by the way the midfielder took the change in his stride.
“Tom had played a little bit there before with Saracens so we had seen it,” said Maddocks. “But it was a late switch and he hadn’t run any of the plays in the week because nobody expected Adam’s late issue.
“All of a sudden we had Jack (Dixon) and Tom playing together and Tom had to move across. It’s good that we have options, we are just short in the back three now.
“We’re been good in that centre area and have kept them together, but the back three has disappeared in the last month,” he added.
“However, the youngsters that have come in have a great attitude, want to learn and they don’t worry (about the step up).”
Dragons are next in Guinness PRO14 action when we face Benetton Rugby at Rodney Parade on Saturday, February 15 (kick-off 7.35pm). Join us for all the league action! Click HERE to buy online or call 01633 674990.
Tom is talented, has an eye for a gap and is a good distributor... He is a good link player for us...
