FORMER Dragons coach Leigh Jones has landed a top job at Leicester Tigers.

Jones, who captained Abertillery from hooker in his playing days, will head to Welford Road from the Hong Kong Rugby Union to become general manager of rugby on May 1.

He coached Pontypool, Ebbw Vale, Wales A, Newport and then the Dragons before working under Eddie Jones with Japan at the 2015 World Cup.

"From a personal perspective, the opportunity to assume the General Manager role with an organisation like Leicester Tigers does not come along often, and was one that I could not turn down," he said.

"I am eager to take on this challenge and thankful for the encouragement I have received from present and former players, staff and board members at the Hong Kong Rugby Union."

South Wales Argus:

Jones will be responsible for Leicester's off-field performance and will work closely with head coach Steve Borthwick, who was also a member of Japan's management team.

Leicester state he will help Borthwick "on the development of the current coaching and performance team and playing squad, as well as the recruitment of coaches, performance staff and players".

Jones said: "I have seen a lot of very good, young, bright coaches come through and Steve is one of the best I have worked with. He is innovative, good on his feet, has a tremendous work ethic and has a good connection with the players."

"What has resonated with me is that there is a real common cause and goal among people at the club to get Leicester Tigers back to the top," he continued.

"There is a clear understanding with everyone and it starts with the development and recruitment of the right people and hopefully I'll put another piece in what is a very important jigsaw at Tigers."