Dragons give Dean Ryan the reins to rule at Rodney Parade

New Dragons director of rugby Dean Ryan spoke of watching the Welsh outfit from the outside last season, admitting his team have a lot of promise but are yet to maximise their potential.

It was recently revealed Dean Ryan has been appointed director of rugby at the Dragons after the club created the role for him, and will be responsible for all matters both on and off the field –  taking a “hands-on role with the playing department.”

He said: “If I look at the quality of performances and individuals in sporadic moments through the season, what is very clear is that we have a lot of potential.

“We need to get consistent, better standards and be better at what we do week in and week out.”

Ryan’s last job in club rugby ended in 2013 with Worcester Warriors and he has since been a part of the Rugby Football Union operating as head of international player development.

He will have a say in the boardroom but also on the pitch, as the Welsh region have tasked him with delivering success to a side that have been wanting for consistent results since their creation in 2003.

Upon selecting Ryan to take the reins at Rodney Parade, chairman David Buttress said: “It became clear Dean has the experience and skill-set to offer something greater and more beneficial to the Dragons.

“This new role we have created will see him have a voice at board level and an input across the organisation.”

The 52-year-old has a proven track-record of getting the best out of under performing sides, squeezing every ounce of energy and ability from his players.

He led Gloucester to the Challenge Cup trophy in 2006, and followed that up with a Premiership final in 2007, topping the table a year later.

JAMES JUBERT / GETTY IMAGES

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