Stcherbina has played rugby league for the Manly Cannons in Australia

Dragons centre Marc Stcherbina will fly home from France on Thursday following a successful neck operation.

The ex-Australia A international suffered the serious injury in the Dragons' 26-7 Heineken Cup loss in Toulouse on Saturday.

Stcherbina, now wearing a specially-made neck, chest and head support, will continue his recovery in Bristol.

The Dragons say Stcherbina's operation went well, he can move all of his limbs and is in "good spirits."

"Marc is concentrating on returning to full health in everyday life, not thinking about his rugby future," said Dragons rugby manager Rob Beale.

"Playing rugby will be the furthest thing from Marc's mind at the moment, all he wants to do is get home and get back on the road to recovery.

"His rugby future is a decision for Marc, his family and the doctors."

The 32-year-old was taken to hospital after being stretchered off in the 49th minute of their defeat in Toulouse.

Marc is not a guy that goes down cheaply Dragons coach Paul Turner

Dragons chief executive Gethin Jenkins confirmed: "Marc has had an operation to stabilise his neck following damage to a disc and a crack in a bone.

"The operation has gone well and he has movement in his arms and legs.

"Our main priority is his long-term wellbeing and we are grateful to the hospital staff, along with those at the Toulouse club, for their professionalism and support.

"Marc is in good spirits and we hope to have him back in Wales as soon as possible."

The Dragons were trailing 7-0 at the time of the incident and there was a 10-minute break in play while medics attended to Stcherbina.

Dragons coach Paul Turner said after the game: "He's not a guy that goes down cheaply."

Stcherbina joined the Dragons from Welsh rivals Cardiff Blues in the summer after stints with the Waratahs, Biarritz and Northampton.

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