NEW DRAGONS boss Lyn Jones has been given the seal of approval by the man who first brought him to Rodney Parade.

The former Wales flanker has joined the region as director of rugby on a three-year deal.

It is a return to Gwent for Jones, who worked as backs coach under Paul Turner in 2008/9 before leaving to take up a job at a school in Abu Dhabi.

Jones – the most successful coach in regional rugby after winning two titles and the Anglo-Welsh Cup at the Ospreys – headed to the middle east after becoming jaded with pro rugby.

He breathed new life into London Welsh on his return to Britain and Turner, who is now running coaching clinics for young talent in England, has tipped him to rejuvenate the Dragons as well.

“I think it’s a great appointment, Lyn is a well respected, top quality coach with a proven track record,” said the former Wales fly-half, who played for his hometown club Newbridge, Newport and Crumlin.

“He is very passionate about regional rugby and will be determined to succeed in Gwent.”

The Dragons had a nightmare 2012/13 that saw them win 10 of 32 games and finish with just winless Zebre beneath them in the RaboDirect Pro12.

But Turner, who still holds the region dear to his heart after six years at the Dragons helm, is hopeful Jones’ arrival can lead to brighter times.

“Lyn did a lot of good work when he came in as backs coach and it wasn't great day when he told me he wanted to take up a teaching opportunity in Abu Dhabi,” said the 53-year-old, whose reign ended in 2011.

“The chance has come for his return and I think it’s the best way forward for the region.

“The players will certainly know where they stand with Lyn – he will be honest and there won’t be any grey areas.

“The Dragons have a great deal of potential in their squad and Lyn is the right guy to get the best out of them.

“It’s not going to be easy as he arrives at a tough time for Welsh rugby with the regions and the WRU in conflict, but I’ve no doubt that Lyn will make the Dragons competitive again.

“Its not been easy for the region over the last couple of the years but I always look out for their results and hope under Lyn they become a force again.”