Percy Montgomery reckons he is a far better player for his two years in Newport - and Springbok coach Jake White couldn't agree more.

The Newport Gwent Dragons full back will take the next step in his international comeback when he lines up for South Africa against Wales on Saturday.

But Monty reckons a major part in his Test revival was his decision to move to Welsh rugby following his original split from the Springboks.

"I definitely think I'm a far better player now than I was when I last played for the Springboks three years ago," said Montgomery.

"In fact I wish I could be 21 again and start from where I am now.

"I haven't got any regrets though. You learn a lot through your career and now I'm just enjoying my rugby at Newport.

"In a way the role I have there is similar to the job that I have been given by Jake at the Springboks.

"He's brought guys like myself and Os du Randt into what is a young side ahead of the Tri Nations to help some of the younger players."

In fact, White admitted he was stunned at the difference two years in Wales had made to the former glamour boy of South African rugby.

"Monty just seems to be a totally different player - he has matured so much since he last played in South Africa and I can put that down to moving away and having to learn how to settle in another country," said the Springbok coach.

"He used to be a little erratic in his play, but he is showing a new maturity in his game that will really help the younger guys around him."

After quitting the Springboks back in 2001, Monty marked his return to international rugby with a near perfect display both with the boot and ball in hand last weekend.

He kicked six out of seven against Ireland and played a key role in both of South Africa's tries.

Now he faces his former coach at Rodney Parade, Mike Ruddock, as well as club-mates Michael Owen and Hal Luscombe when he comes face to face with Wales in Pretoria this Saturday.

"It will be a little strange to be playing against guys like Hal who I have been helping all season, but I'm looking forward to it," said Montgomery.

"I'm really pleased for Hal, he's come through this season and it's great to see him get his chance on Saturday. "I'm sure he will see quite a bit of the ball because Wales like to open up their play.

"Mike likes to have continuity between the forwards and backs and with some of the exciting runners in their team, I think Saturday will be quite a spectacle."

Luscombe is likely to play the game with a specially made cast on his thumb - as will Sonny Parker - following a previous injury suffered in Argentina.

However, Michael Owen will undergo a late fitness test tomorrow on a back problem that is still giving cause for concern.

The three certain changes are all in the front five, with Gethin Jenkins, Mefin Davies and Deiniol Jones replacing Duncan Jones, Huw Bennett and Brent Cockbain who has had to return home because of a family illness.