Dean Ryan has revealed destructive back row Ross Moriarty is now closing in on a playing return.
The Wales international has not featured for the Men of Gwent since successful shoulder surgery.
The 27-year-old suffered an injury during Wales' autumn defeat to the All Blacks in October.
And while Moriarty will not feature in the European Challenge Cup clash with Benetton Rugby in Italy this weekend, the Director of Dragons Rugby has reported positive news.
"He's training as part of the injured group and hasn't integrated back into training yet,” said Ryan.
"But he's not far off, and we would hope over the next couple of weeks that he'd certainly integrate into the main squad."
"We've missed him,” he added. “His injury certainly coincided with some of our loss of confidence, probably.
"I'd imagine from a Welsh perspective and from a regional perspective, we can't wait to see him back on the field."
Meanwhile, scrum half Rhodri Williams is also making strides after injury with Ryan adding: “Rhodri is getting close, but he is not back yet. He is close to being part of the training squad again."
