Kevin Morgan is the new Dragons leader at Rodney Parade

Wales full-back Morgan, who has won 36 caps, arrived at Rodney Parade in 2004 from the disbanded Celtic Warriors.

Last season was cut short by a serious foot injury, the latest in a string of setbacks Morgan has overcome, but the 29-year-old is relishing his new start.

"I am very proud to be made captain of the Dragons and the team is looking to the challenges ahead," Morgan said.

In a poor season last term, the Dragons became the first Welsh region to fail to qualify for the Heineken Cup, losing a play-off at home to Italian side Overmach Parma.

Rodney Parade stalwart Forster also departed to become Doncaster player/forwards coach, after failing to arrange a similar deal with Newport RFC and the Dragons.

But Morgan is looking forward to a new beginning for the Dragons, wanting to increase their performance on the pitch and their popularity in Gwent.

"Last season is now behind us. There are a number of new faces who will make an impact," Morgan added.

"During my enforced lay-off I had the opportunity to view things from the other side, from the community perspective and I have seen first-hand the hard work that goes in with clubs and schools in the region.

"As captain I will look to encourage the players to continue our work in the region and get more involved in the community side.

"The support we had last season was tremendous and with the backing of our supporters I can assure fans that on-field we will be doing everything we can to repay their support."