New back row Dan Baker can give the pack at Dragons an extra dimension, according to boss Dean Ryan.
Baker, 28, has linked up with Dragons on a deal until the end of the season and could make his debut from the bench in tonight’s Guinness PRO14 clash with champions Leinster at Rodney Parade (kick-off 7.35pm).
The Wales international – who arrived after a spell with Stade Montois in France - is renowned for his direct running and abrasive ball carrying approach.
Baker boosts Dragons during a spell without a number of first team regulars – Ross Moriarty, Ollie Griffiths, Taine Basham and Lewis Evans are among those currently sidelined while Aaron Wainwright is away with Wales.
“We have got lots of dynamic, wide-ranging back rowers, I think we needed a bit of A to B and we have been really impressed with his impact in that area,” said Ryan.
“Dan has been playing in a different competition so he has to adapt back into what the PRO14 is, but he definitely offers us something that we don’t already have.”
“He had a significant injury and he had to re-invent himself in a different tournament to keep himself playing,” added Ryan.
“This is very much an opportunity for both of us to look at each other. He’s a different option and we’ve got lots of quality in our back row, so the bar is set quite high.
“What I have been impressed with is that isn’t all he has to offer, he’s a good footballer, he runs some good lines and has some good hands, we have just got to make sure that we fit him into our system and give him the best platform and best opportunity to be successful here.”
He’s a good footballer, he runs some good lines and has some good hands... we have just got to make sure that we fit him into our system and give him the best platform...
