Blues expect Euro struggle Full Heineken Cup fixtures

The Rodney Parade team will face Edinburgh, Perpignan and Colin Charvis' new side Newcastle Falcons in Pool 5 next season.

"We can't be disappointed, it doesn't appear as daunting as last season," said chief executive Andy Marinos.

"There are no easy games in Europe, though, it will be really exciting to have Newcastle on the opening night."

It will be great to play against another giant of French rugby Dragons chief executive Andy Marinos

Marinos added: "The sporting public in Gwent want to see the top names in the game playing at Rodney Parade and they won't be disappointed by the quality of players who will be coming with the Falcons, Perpignan and Edinburgh.

"To have the likes of Jonny Wilkinson, Matt Burke and Colin Charvis here on the opening night is exciting.

"We obviously know a little bit about Newcastle, having played and beaten them twice in the Heineken Cup two years ago, and we have been regular opponents of Edinburgh.

"We have had Toulouse and Stade Francais in the Heineken Cup at Rodney Parade before, and have beaten them both, so it will be great to play against another giant of French rugby, Perpignan."