Dean Ryan has spoken about his excitement at the prospect of seeing more of Jared Rosser at centre for the region – after an encouraging first outing in the Guinness PRO14 Rainbow Cup.
The 23-year-old speedster started as a centre in the 52-32 win against the Scarlets on Sunday.
Rosser was forced off early in the second half at Rodney Parade through injury but Ryan is keen to continue to utilise his power and pace across the back line.
"It was a shame he was forced off - but we will see more of Jared there," said Director of Dragons Rugby.
"That’s what this five or six-week period in the Rainbow Cup gives us.
"We have some real pace coming through with players such as Rio Ryer, so Jared can offer us an alternative at 13.
"He is incredibly powerful and for his first go he looked really comfortable in there. A couple of times he was hesitant on whether to go or not, but this is what these experiences are for.
"Jared is someone to watch out for at 13 and can give us more depth there and more pressure around that selection."
Wales Sevens international Rosser has made 54 appearances and scored 20 tries since his debut in 2017. And Ryan is keen to use his versatility going forward to create opportunities.
“I don’t necessarily want players who can play lots of positions, but the strength of our squad will offer opportunities that potentially you wouldn’t see in another squad where there is an established pecking order,” he said.
“We don’t have that here so Jared can play 13 and be a threat. That just builds our depth and confidence into next year.”
Dragons started the Rainbow Cup with a bonus-point win against Scarlets but will not be in action this weekend while European semi-finals take place before returning against Cardiff Blues at the Arms Park a week on Sunday.
Ryan's men then host Ospreys with the remaining fixtures in the Rainbow Cup yet to be confirmed.
Jared can offer us an alternative at 13... He is incredibly powerful and for his first go he looked really comfortable in there...
