Forwards Coach Luke Narraway believes young back row George Young can grasp his opportunity during pre-season – and going ‘from boy to man’ since the last campaign.
Young, 21, is named in a 31-man squad foe Saturday’s big pre-season clash with Ospreys at Rodney Parade (kick-off 3pm).
With the likes of Aaron Wainwright, Taine Basham and Dan Lydiate away with Wales in France for the Rugby World Cup, it is a chance for Young to stake his claim.
And Narraway has been impressed by what he has seen of the back row tyro Young, who has two senior appearances for the Men of Gwent.
“George has probably gone from boy to man now. This pre-season he has really stepped up and I have been really impressed with him across the back row,” he said.
“We are not blessed with numbers in the back five so he has played 6, 7 and 8, taking everything in his stride. He has had lot and lots of minutes and reps in training and hasn't looked out of place.
“George is one of the transitional players (from the Dragons Academy) who are ready to show us what they have got.
“Opportunity knocks in World Cup seasons, that has always been the case and I know a lot of players who have made good careers after getting chances in this period.
“Hopefully we will have a few putting their hands up and putting pressure on the first team guys.”
Narraway also believes Young will benefit from working with Lydiate on his return from international duty.
“It will be brilliant - they are quite similar in player profile,” said Narraway.
“George is a fantastic chop tackler and that is something that Dan has been known for over more than a decade.
“Dan has such experience and when he comes back to where he started it will be great for the boys to see how he operates up close and personal. I am sure Dan will have a massive effect on the future of this club.”
Opportunity knocks in World Cup seasons, that has always been the case and I know a lot of players who have made good careers after getting chances in this period...
