Head Coach Dai Flanagan has backed his fab four new overseas recruits to make a big impression at Dragons RFC – insisting all have a point to prove.
The Men of Gwent have announced the signings of four players with South African back Chris Hollis, Australian duo Harry Wilson and Steve Cummins along with Tongan No 8 Solomone Funaki all joining up.
Flanagan is confident they will not only improve results but help develop the likes of Ryan Woodman, Harri Ackerman, Joe Westwood, Dylan Kelleher-Griffiths and Will Reed.
And he believes the new Dragons will play with fire inside them as they look to make an impression.
“All the new signings have got a point to prove here and will make an impact,” said Flanagan.
“I was fortunate enough to play in the Cardiff Galacticos era. Xavier Rush produced Sam Warburton, Paul Tito produced Bradley Davies, Ben Blair produced Leigh Halfpenny and Casey Laulala produced Jamie Roberts.
"It's no coincidence that these players next to them had fantastic careers given the example they set. I saw it down west with Steve Cummins and the forwards down there.
"I saw it first hand, he was the ultimate professional with a very level head with experience and he understands the game. Again, Sione Kalamafoni added to that with the Josh Macleod era.
"We are hoping Funaki brings exactly what Kalamafoni brought down west. Harry Wilson can light up in his own right. He's got abilities that super excite me.
"He's quick, he's got a good outside break, he's physical, he's big. So, they'll all add something individually and collectively.
"Funaki excites me because the references I've had off Sam Lousi and Sione Kalamafoni have been unbelievable," added Flanagan.
"I know Steve Cummins and I know the quality he can add. He's been behind Sam Whitelock this year, so he wants to come back and prove things.
"Chris Hollis wants to prove himself this week against the Stormers. Harry Wilson, I had an unbelievable reference off Jamie Roberts. Jamie played with him and spent time with him at the Waratahs.
"He's given a massive green tick of approval and he's a player he thinks can really kick on. Things like that are exciting and he'll have a point to prove.”
