European Challenge Cup: Dragons VS Lyon
Place: Rodney Parade, Newport date: Sunday, December 14 kick off: 15:15 GMT
Coverage: Live commentary on the BBC Sport website and app.
The Dragons signed George Roberts from Doncaster due to Hooker’s injury crisis.
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The 27-year-old from Wrexham joined his new team-mates on Wednesday after being released by Knight Riders and signed up for the European squad ahead of Sunday’s Challenge Cup tie against Lyon at Newport.
The Dragons are currently without Elliot Dee, James Benjamin and Sam Scarfe through injury, while Brodie Coghlan made his Wales debut against New Zealand in the autumn and Ollie Bros is unavailable for this weekend’s game.
This leaves head coach Filo Tiatia with loanee Will Austin as his only option. Will Austin is a former Wales Under-20 international who has made two substitute appearances after signing a short-term contract with Sale Sharks.
Roberts joins Doncaster in 2021 and has extensive experience in the English Championship.
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The former Rygbi Gogledd Cymru (RGC) hooker scored a century with the Knights last month and will now have the chance to impress and earn a long-term contract with the Dragons.
“George arrived from Doncaster on Tuesday night and has trained really well but he’s got a lot of information to absorb,” head coach Philo Diatia said.
“He’s committed to this opportunity and grateful for the opportunity. Elliott and James are still a while away, so it’s important that we get some help and we’re happy to have George here.”
Roberts made 103 appearances for Doncaster, scoring 19 goals.
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Knights director of rugby Sir Ian McGeekan said: “He has been at the heart of the team’s performance and has developed into an important leader within the squad.”
“We are delighted that he has been given the opportunity to play for the Dragons at URC Wales, something he has always wanted to achieve, and he carries the best wishes of everyone at the club as he continues his journey in a Welsh jersey.”
Coghlan is close to returning from a hand injury, while Barros is available against Lyon with a rib problem.
Dee (shoulder) and Benjamin (groin) are unlikely to feature in the Six Nations.
