WALES lock Ian Gough (pictured) has signed for Newport Gwent Dragons for another two years, ending speculation that he intended moving to France to start a new career.

The Dragons have also re-signed Wales threequarter Nathan Brew for two more years and they have signed Llanelli Scarlets lock Bryn Griffiths for the same period.

The Scarlets have signed two overseas locks, South African Hotte Louw and Tonga captain Ineoke Afeaki, so have released Griffiths.

That has surprised many for Griffiths, 23 last week and a Wales Under-21 cap, is regarded as a highly promising player, an aggressive lock with a bright future. Griffiths, 6ft 5in and 18st 2lb., was a member of the Grand Slam winning side two years ago.

Gough has regained his place in the Wales squad this season and went on as a replacement during the second half against Italy in Rome.

He is an integral part of the Dragons squad, very experienced now and has regained his best form this season.

Andy Marinos, Dragons chief executive, said: "I'm delighted he has re-signed for another two years. He has been outstanding this year and week in, week out plays at an exceptional level, it's important we have secured his signature again."

There had been increasing suggestions Gough was seeking to further his career by playing in France, though he has always denied it.

His re-signing could not have come at a more appropriate time or be a better signal after recent uncertainty because of the departure of benefactor Tony Brown and the decision not to renew coach Chris Anderson's contract.

Marinos added, "Bryn Griffiths has showed a lot of promise for the Scarlets, we've watched him and he's a talent for the future. It means we've got three young second rows with the Dragons (Luke Charteris and Peter Sidoli the others) with an older, more experienced head in 'Goughie.'

"We're also delighted Nathan has re-signed for another two years. He's had a frustrating year with a couple of injuries, but we all know he's got huge potential and as he develops he's going to be a very potent attacking weapon for the Dragons and Wales."