NEWPORT Gwent Dragons youngster Tyler Morgan has been backed to rise to the occasion in Wales' key World Cup clash with Australia.

The 20-year-old from Caerleon has jumped to the front of the queue at outside centre following injuries to Jonathan Davies, Scott Williams and Cory Allen.

He missed the initial cut for the World Cup squad but won his second cap alongside Jamie Roberts in last Thursday's 23-13 win against Fiji at the Millennium Stadium.

Morgan produced a solid performance but the Wallabies, second favourites for the tournament behind holders New Zealand, are a step up in class for a player with just 23 Dragons games under his belt.

It has been suggested that boss Warren Gatland could shift wing George North to midfield or turn to utility back James Hook.

However, backs coach Rob Howley said they were delighted with how the inexperienced Dragon performed against the Flying Fijians and has hinted the youngest member of their squad will keep his place, making his first Test appearance away from Cardiff.

"We were really pleased with Tyler. I think many forget the circumstances in which these young players come in," said the former scrum-half.

"It was the same with Jonathan Davies in 2009 and can be a hard learning curve, as 'Fox' found, out but Tyler can be pleased with his performance against Fiji.

"It's a step-up against Australia but we feel Tyler can make that step... if we go with that selection.

"One thing Warren has never been afraid to do is throw in young players. You have to trust your players and, in terms of adversity and what they have gone through, you find out a lot about them."

Harlequins powerhouse Roberts, who will win his 73rd cap on Saturday afternoon, was also impressed by the way his new midfield partner slotted in.

"It's a rapid learning curve. For a 20-year-old with not much international experience, Tyler was fantastic on Thursday," said the two-time Lions tourist.

"He's maturing as a player and it's awesome to see. Already, he's understanding the game very quickly. Test rugby is a different game to club rugby and he's taken to it like a duck to water.

"He's done really well and did some very good things against Fiji. He's quick, elusive and showed some good attacking skills but made some really good reads in defence as well.

"He made some clever decisions and has taken his opportunity well."