Bridgend owner Leighton Samuel has reacted angrily to suggestions that the Ravens and Neath should include Pontypridd in their proposed merger.

Neath and Bridgend have agreed to pool resources to bid for one of four regional franchises to compete in European and Celtic competition.

With Llanelli and Cardiff set on bidding as stand alone clubs, the likes of Ponty and Swansea could be left out in the cold.

Is one club bigger than three? Bridgend owner Leighton Samuel

But Samuel branded as "disgusting" the suggestion that three Premier clubs should have to merge so that other clubs could stand alone.

"Why is it that three clubs are being asked to sacrifice for the sake of keeping two other clubs - Cardiff and Llanelli - as stand alone," Samuel said.

"Is one club bigger than three? The answer to that is no.

"I'm disgusted that the issue has even been raised and as far as I'm concerned there's no chance."

Samuel stressed that there was no antipathy towards Pontypridd, merely the suggestion that some clubs were being asked to make large sacrifices for Cardiff and Llanelli.

"I'd rather do nine clubs than have three of our major clubs amalgamate," Samuel added.

"I'd rather struggle next year and make ends meet with the squad I've got - which I think is very good."

The plan to create four regional franchises will be presented to the Welsh Rugby Union's 239 member clubs at an EGM on 23 February.

Only the votes of that body can implement the proposed changes in the game, with a 75% majority needed for such a fundamental change to take place.