I FEEL FOR THE FANS, BUT IT’S BEEN A GOOD YEAR BECAUSE WE’VE MADE BIG CHANGES
DRAGONS COACH JACKMAN OPENS UP ON TOUGH TERM
AARON Jarvis is to return to Wales on a two-year contract with the Dragons.
The 18-cap prop has been playing for Clermont Auvergne since departing the Ospreys in 2016.
But the Dragons have been looking to add to their front-row resources and see Jarvis as being a potentially useful recruit.
The Wales international played 91 times for the Ospreys after joining from Bath in 2011.
He can operate on both sides of the scrum and is unlikely to have gone backwards after two years in the Top 14.
The 31-year-old hasn’t given up hopes of adding to his haul of caps and his versatility could help as he seeks to win Warren Gatland’s favour once again.
But his immediate priority will be to do a job for the Dragons.
Coach Bernard Jackman has already announced the signings of Wales internationals Ross Moriarty, Richard Hibbard, Rhodri Williams and Ryan Bevington, while Jordan Williams will also pitch up in Newport this summer.
Jarvis has considerable experience and figured in three games in the 2015 World Cup, including the pool clash with Australia.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time in France with Clermont,” said the 31-year-old Jarvis. “I feel I am returning to Wales a better player and proud of what I’ve achieved during my time here.”
“The time feels right to return for a fresh challenge and I’m excited about joining the Dragons next season given the squad Bernard is building and linking up again with Richard Hibbard and Ryan Bevington after our time together at the Ospreys.”
Jackman said: “We’re delighted to sign Aaron for next season. He has the pedigree, profile and talent we were looking for to boost our front row options, with a wealth of experience at regional, European and international level.
“I feel that his game and in particular his scrummaging is now even better than before having experienced the different forces and styles that the Top 14 exposes Tight heads too. “
The Dragons are also said to be eyeing Stade Francais’ Samoan back-five man Brandon Nansen, with Jackman suggesting five more new players could be unveiled in the coming weeks.