JAMES Thomas has been hailed as the form blindside flanker in Wales by Newport Gwent Dragons head coach Kingsley Jones.

The 24-year-old from Blackwood has been a key figure for the region since breaking into the side last autumn and no forward in the squad can better his tally of 22 appearances.

It has been a remarkable return to the Dragons' ranks by former Wales Under-20s captain Thomas, who was previously on the regions books only to be released in 2011 after suffering serious injuries to both knees.

He earned another shot thanks to his exploits with Bedwas in the Principality Premiership and has grasped the opportunity with both hands.

"James has been excellent for us and I believe that he is the best six in Wales at this moment," said former flanker Jones.

"I watch our games back 10 to 15 times and his involvement, his statistics and work rate is amazing. Let's hope that he continues on this path because he is big enough and strong enough.

"We all know the promise he showed with Wales Under-20s before injuries put paid to his hopes for a while, but he doesn't show any effect of that now.

"The players in the squad really respect him and that's through his performances. He doesn't say too much, he just goes about his business and is coachable. James wants to learn."

Thomas is the latest player to earn a shot at Rodney Parade after impressing in the Premiership, following in the footsteps of Andrew Coombs, Lloyd Burns, Mike Poole and Ross Wardle.

Jones has pledged to give those that shine in club rugby, whether already attached to the Dragons after coming through the academy or from outside the camp, a chance to impress.

He said: "From the outside when I was with Sale I watched the Welsh Premiership and saw these players around and thought 'surely they can play for the Dragons?'.

"I'm not saying they can necessarily be first choice week in, week out as James has achieved but there are players out there.

"First and foremost we have to give these Gwent players – James, Matthew Pewtner, Dorian Jones, Angus, Scott Matthews – an opportunity. Fair play to those boys, they are stepping up."