DRAGONS boss Bernard Jackman says Jarryd Sage has found his feet as a professional as the South African centre prepares for a first start of the season, writes Chris Kirwan.

The 23-year-old will deputise for Jack Dixon, who suffered a 'stinger' injury to his right arm in last week's 16-5 win against Zebre, in Glasgow on Saturday.

Sage performed well off the bench against the Italians and his reward is selection as Adam Warren's midfield partner at Scotstoun Stadium (kick-off 7.35pm).

The South African, whose dad is from Newbridge and whose older brother is Blitzboks sevens international Dylan, arrived from the Southern Kings last autumn and made six regional outings.

This weekend will be his first start since enduring a tough time against his former side in Port Elizabeth, albeit in the unfamiliar 13 jersey.

Jackman believes Sage has come on leaps and bounds thanks to the experience of 2017/18 and a full pre-season.

"Jarryd has been good off the bench and deserved a crack anyway," said the head coach. "He was good in pre-season and has got himself into really good shape.

"He has lost four kilos, looks sharp with ball in hand, has good footwork and is good in the contact area.

"We knew that Jarryd wouldn't be the finished product but rather than get him in June we got him to cover injuries.

"You can see now that is much more comfortable with this environment and we are excited about him because he is a young player with a lot of potential. It does take a while to adjust."

With former Springbok Zane Kirchner on loan at Bristol, Sage and Warren are the only fit specialist centres in Jackman's squad, although the head coach is likely to have more options next weekend.

Dixon is set to return for the derby with Cardiff Blues at Rodney Parade while Wales international Tyler Morgan is making good progress from a hamstring strain and could push for selection.

However, the news isn't so good for Tiaan Loots with the summer signing from RGC 1404 set for 12 weeks on the sidelines after tearing a pectoral muscle in the Dragons A team's win against Connacht Eagles a fortnight ago.

Connor Edwards, who made 10 appearances when enjoying a strong end to last season, suffered a jaw injury in the same Celtic Cup game and will be out for a month.