CROSS Keys have appointed former Wales fly-half/full-back Byron Hayward as attack coach.

Hayward fills the role that was vacated by Mark Ring, who left to join Cardiff earlier this month.

The 43-year-old, who was capped twice, will combine the role with his job as Dragons Academy skills coach and Wales Under-20s backs coach.

Hayward previously coached Ebbw Vale and Newbridge.

He was involved in his first Keys training session last night and head coach Greg Woods is delighted to have him on board.

“Byron’s CV is first class and his arrival is a really positive move for the club,” said Woods.

“Obviously it will be difficult for him to join us mid-season and he has his commitments with the Under-20s Six Nations after Christmas, but we have pencilled in plenty of sessions.

“It’s important that over the coming weeks and months that he comes in and gets used to our systems and environment.

“Byron will be big on the core skills of passing, decision-making and defence and I think this will prove to be a perfect fit with his academy job and Under-20s role.”

Hayward was at training last night as Keys prepare for tomorrow’s clash with Swansea at Pandy Park.

Table-topping Bedwas host Newport on a busy night of Premiership action.

See tomorrow’s Argus for full previews of the games at Pandy Park and Bridge Field.