Former Dragon Lydiate: I've got plenty left in the tank for Ospreys

The Lions blindside flanker, who won the last of his 64 Wales caps against Australia in 2018, joined the Ospreys from Racing Metro in 2014.

The 32-year-old was hindered by injury last season but has been an ever-present for the Liberty Stadium side in the current campaign and has deputised for Justin Tipuric while the club captain has been on Test duty.

The injury-hit Ospreys have endured a torrid time and sit bottom of Conference A of the Guinness PRO14 with just two wins from 12 games.

But Lydiate, who played 85 times for the Dragons between 2007 and 2013, is confident that brighter times lie ahead under new boss Toby Booth.

"Signing a new deal gives me security for my family and I am looking forward to where the Ospreys are now heading," said Lydiate, who has made 63 appearances for the region.

"It's been a tough season, but hopefully we can get back to where we should belong and I want to be a part of it.

"It has been a really tough year, but I have enjoyed being captain while Tips has been away. You do feel more responsible for the losses but I have been honoured to lead the boys out for every game I have this season.

"I still think I have a lot of rugby left in me in an Ospreys jersey. I have had a tough couple of years with injury and I am just enjoying playing back-to-back games."

Lydiate follows Tipuric, back rower Sam Cross, centre Owen Watkin, locks Bradley Davies and Adam Beard, wing Keelan Giles, full-back Cai Evans and props Ma'afu Fia, Tom Botha and Rhodri Jones in signing new terms.

Full-back Mat Protheroe, prop Nicky Thomas, lock Rhys Davies and scrum half Rhys Webb have all signed for the Ospreys next season.

"It has been a difficult season, but I feel that I have really found some form and been able to build on that with every game I have played," said Lydiate.

"There is real competition for backrow places at the Ospreys and that always brings out the best in me.

"It's important for us to build on our recent performances for the remainder of the season and look forward to the region's future."

Ospreys rugby manager Dan Griffiths believes Lydiate is a key figure on and off the field.

"Dan is a warrior, and is hugely respected at the club," said the former Newport fly-half. "He is a player that always sets very high standards, particularly for himself, and leads by that example.

"In adversity this season he has really stood up in the environment, and as always plays with complete commitment to the team.

"Being able to retain players like Dan is really important to both the squad and the club. His quality, experience and competitiveness will be crucial on the pitch, but also it's these qualities that educate the young players on what being a top professional is all about."

"It's important to get the blend right, and in Dan who know you have a player and a person that will give every last drop to ensure the Ospreys are successful moving forward."