FORMER Wales full-back Morgan Stoddart has joined the Newport Gwent Dragons Under-18s management team, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 30-year-old is backs coach at Principality Premiership club Cross Keys and has been brought in to assist in developing the region’s young guns.

Stoddart, who won eight caps before being forced to retire because of a leg injury, will work alongside academy manager James Chapron and coach Shaun Connor.

Chapron said: “Me and Shaun talked about having some extra help, especially with his commitments with the first team.

“We’ve worked with Morgan when involved with Cross Keys in the British and Irish Cup and have been impressed so it’s a good fit for both parties.

“Coaching age-grade will be a really good learning curve for Morgan and he has already been doing a lot of good work with our back three.”

The Under-18s enjoyed a fine summer with victories against Northampton and London Wasps but have endured a tough start to the WRU Regional Championship.

On Wednesday evening they were condemned to a third defeat of the season after being beaten 35-8 by the Ospreys in Ystrad Mynach.

The Dragons, who were outscored five tries to one, host north Walians RGC 1404 on Sunday.