FORMER Newport Gwent Dragons star Ian Gough insists the region has enough potential to become a real force in rugby.

Panteg-born Gough believes that with the right people in place the Dragons can “produce some big things” and not, as some have suggested, be merely a feeder region.

And the 64-times capped Wales international is eager to see someone invest in the Rodney Parade outfit.

“It’s a fantastic region and we’re trying to encapsulate all of Gwent in that,” said Gough, who played for both Newport RFC and the Dragons during his career.

“If that can be done then we’re going to be a big power, not just a feeder region.

“So, if it’s handled properly, and the environment is right, then Gwent rugby can produce some big things – it has certainly got the potential."

Drawing on his own experiences, he went on to add: “I got relegated with Newport back in the late 90s and a certain Tony Brown saw something special, and he came in and made it a very special place.

"He had big ideas and it was a fantastic place to be, and that’s what is needed now, for someone to see how special Gwent is as a region and how special the people are, and really create that environment for the boys to thrive.

“The right person will really have their heart in the right place to do that and make it a success.”

Dragons chief executive Stuart Davies stated last week that he was “busy” dealing with “approaches” from potential investors.

Joint-owners of the region, Newport RFC and the Welsh Rugby Union, have both said they would transfer their shares if a new backer could be found.

It was former Wales captain Gwyn Jones who said it “wouldn’t be a bad thing” if the Dragons were to “become more developmental in their philosophy” after Kingsley Jones’ men lost to the Scarlets on Judgement Day.