NEWPORT Gwent Dragons coach Paul Turner is hoping he can sign centre David Bishop who is currently on trial after being released by English Premiership team Sale.

The former Ospreys player, brother of Wales centre Andrew Bishop, was one of the Dragons’ few successes in their 33-20 defeat at the hands of London Irish in Saturday’s pre-season friendly at Rodney Parade.

He replaced Rhodri Gomer Davies, who suffered a calf injury after only 13 minutes, but scored a try and looked a real danger on other occasions though he got himself yellow carded as well for offside.

The Dragons are looking stretched already in the centre with the league season still almost two weeks away, and they currently have three experienced players out of action in the position.

Ashley Smith is still recovering from a foot operation and won’t be back until mid-October, Matthew Watkins is unwell and Davies is now sidelined as well. Other than that, the Dragons would have to plunge youngsters Matthew Pewtner, though more a wing, and Adam Hughes in when they may not be ready.

The problem is the squad is now full and the budget has been spent so it could leave the Dragons relying on some kind of outside help if they are to draft Bishop in.

“We are looking at David over a two-month period (on trial), I want it to work out, he’s physical and has a great pedigree,” said Turner. “I hope it’s possible we can sign him full-time, but others could be interested in him as well.”

The Dragons hope to have a number of major players back for Friday night’s final pre-season friendly against Cardiff Blues in Martyn Williams’ testimonial match at the Cardiff City Stadium on Friday night.

Skipper Tom Willis should make his first appearance in the summer friendlies, while Will Harries, Rob Sidoli, Dan Lydiate and Gavin Thomas could all return from injury.

Turner admitted: “I don’t think Dai Young (Blues chief) or I wanted this fixture, but it’s a chance to get a few more players back and hopefully not pick up any more injuries. We need our share of luck with them.”

New signing lock Scott Morgan will make a quickfire return against his former team, but admits: “There is no such thing as a friendly in this fixture.

“I’ll meet up with a lot of old friends again, but that will be put on hold for a day. It’ll be a good contest, they are a quality side with a lot of class throughout.”