URC: Angus O'Brien signs new two-year deal with Dragons

The 29-year-old from Caerleon has endured a frustrating campaign after suffering a broken arm at Munster in November then another minor problem with it after his return against Glasgow in February.

O’Brien aims to play in the United Rugby Championship run-in and will then return for at least two more campaigns at Rodney Parade after signing a new deal.

“It’s been a tough and frustrating season for me personally due to injury but now I’ve re-signed with Dragons I can look forward to more games and hitting a century of games soon,” he said.

“My focus is my recovery and I can’t wait to get back out on the field in front of our fans because I am massively excited about the next few years ahead of us.”

KICK: Angus O'Brien chips over the top for the Dragons against Edinburgh (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

O’Brien came through the ranks as a fly-half at the Dragons and made 70 appearances before heading to the Scarlets in 2018 after being a fringe figure.

The Wales Sevens international, who played at the 2018 Commonwealth Games, returned in 2022 and was a huge hit to win the player of the season award for his efforts, largely at full-back.

O’Brien is solid under the high ball and not only has a big boot but an eye for a gap, yet he was set to mainly feature at 10 this season after the signing of full-back Cai Evans.

Head coach Dai Flanagan is relishing the return of his experienced playmaker after having to lean heavily on up-and-coming fly-half Will Reed this season.

“We’re all really pleased that Angus has signed a new contract as he is a very important figure within our squad,” said Flanagan about O'Brien, younger brother of backs coach Matt.

“Angus has impressed in his second spell with the club, deservedly winning the player of the season award last term.

“We’ve missed both his ability and presence on the field this season, as he has been unlucky with the injuries he’s picked up.

“However, Angus is determined to get back out on the field before the end of the current campaign and continue to show he is a leader for Dragons.”

O’Brien will not be ready for a comeback in the club’s return to action at Benetton in the URC next Saturday but he will hope to play on Welsh soil before the summer.

The Dragons host Connacht and the Stormers, head to Swansea to take on the Ospreys and then face the Scarlets at the Cardiff City Stadium Judgement Day.

Flanagan’s men are currently above bottom club Zebre Parma on wins with the Scarlets two points ahead of them and the resurgent Sharks three clear.