Dragons urged to recruit top men

Jan 20 2008 by Simon Roberts, Wales On Sunday

PERCY MONTGOMERY has urged the Dragons to sign a few world-class players to boost rugby in the Gwent region.

The Springbok World Cup winner returned to Rodney Parade for the first time since he left Wales in 2005 and issued a stark message to his former employers. “I think it’s important for youngsters in the Gwent region,” said Monty.

“It’s important to have stars or high-profile players, and they can be Welsh because the younger players learn from them.

“I remember when I was a youngster I learnt from older players and they just help every team.

“That can only be good for the region.”

Monty also admitted his time in Wales with Newport and the Dragons region had been vital for his career.

“We went training in Cwmbran, where I used to train, and the same nice lady was working there,” said Monty.

“I was disappointed not to be able to bring my family back with me but we will definitely be back in Wales.

“I came here because I needed a new challenge and I spent hours working on my game here. It was an important time for me.

“It is a completely different team but it was good to see guys like Rhys Thomas, Ceri Sweeney, Mike Owen and Gareth Wyatt are still here.

“There were some good youngsters, too. You have to build a team and that is what South Africa did in the World Cup. “There was some nice banter out there but I always remember how difficult it was for opposing teams to play at Rodney Parade.

“Now I know what that feels like. The crowd are so passionate here and they are right on top of the players.

“I had some really good times here but the conditions are difficult, and you have to play a tight boring game in weather like that – but we are happy with the result.”

Paul Turner, the Dragons coach, revealed he expects to sign a new two-year deal this week which will keep him at Rodney Parade. He also said he has put a plan to the Dragons’ board about what he needed to take the region forward.

“Our rebuilding starts now in our Magners League campaign,” said Turner.

“I have put a plan before the board and the plan is to buy a couple of quality players and keep developing our youngsters.” Gethin Jenkins, the Dragons’ chief executive, confirmed that Turner would be given some funding for players.