Turner is considering his options in the three-quarters

The Dragons have signed Colwyn Bay youngster Pat Leach on a one-year contract as they look for more cover in their problem centre position.

The 23-year-old was with Manchester in England Division One last season and has played for Orrell and Cheshire.

"He had a trial with Worcester, and Gloucester came in late for him, but he has decided to join us," Dragons coach Paul Turner told the South Wales Argus.

Ashley Smith was the only fit centre on the Dragons' regular playing rota.

Rory Sidey has returned to his native Australia, Marc Stcherbina has retired, while Matthew Watkins (hip) and Rhodri Gomer Davies (ankle) will miss the start of the season due to injury.

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Wing Aled Brew can cover at centre, though, while Tom Riley has been drafted in from Newport RFC and Adam Hughes from the academy.

"[Leach] impressed in our own trial and we were quite pleased with him," said Turner.

"He's got a lot to his game and I think he'll develop. He's big and strong and has got quite a bit of skill.

"He's a good sportsman who has also played cricket for the MCC."

As well as their injury problems in the centre, the Dragons are likely to start the season without scrum-half Danny Lee (hamstring) and back-five forward Hoani MacDonald (shoulder).

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