NEWPORT Gwent Dragons centre Jack Dixon says his career-threatening injury has made him 'hungrier than ever' to show the sort of form that earned a Wales call-up, writes Chris Kirwan.
The 21-year-old from Newbridge will line up against Glasgow at Rodney Parade in the Guinness Pro12 tomorrow (kick-off 7.35pm) as the Dragons attempt to kick-start their season against title hopefuls.
Dixon is back to full fitness after enduring a torrid 2015/16 in which he played just three games following a career-threatening kidney injury suffered on his return from Wales' pre-World Cup training camp.
The centre is an outsider for Rob Howley's autumn squad, which will be named on Tuesday, October 18, but a strong showing against an impressive Warriors side would be a timely reminder of his qualities.
"I am a team player but in the back of your mind in these big games against the likes of Glasgow or Leinster, everyone wants to put in a big performance because these are the ones that people are watching," said Dixon.
"Last season I was banging my head against the wall but I am fresh, ready to go and hungrier than ever," he continued. "I realise how lucky I am after not being able to play rugby last year and I really want to get back out there and find a bit of form again."
Dixon knows that catching the eye of the international coaches relies on making the Dragons 12 jersey his own and competition is fierce this season.
So far head coach Kingsley Jones has tried a different partnership in each Pro12 game with Dixon, fellow Wales hopeful Tyler Morgan, Adam Warren and Sam Beard all given the chance to showcase their skills.
"Kingsley has wanted to rotate all the boys and I don't think he is sure what his best combination is yet," said Dixon.
"Whoever gets put in there is looking to put in big performances and we are all fighting for those spots in training and out on the pitch.
"We are lucky to be all fit and Kingsley is spoilt for choice, which hasn't been the case recently (because of injuries). Competition is good and we want to keep that going."
The Dragons name their side at midday with Dixon likely to be among a number of changes to the XV that lost 27-11 at Treviso last Friday.
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