NEW fly-half Kris Burton is keen to show Newport Gwent Dragons fans that there is a lot more to his game than a metronomic right boot.
The 33-year-old former Italy international brings some experience to a Dragons back division that is brimming with youthful exuberance.
Burton, who signed this summer from Treviso, is known for his ability to keep the scoreboard ticking along.
On the face of it he is a safer option that the more daring Jason Tovey and Steffan Jones, who at 22 is still learning the ropes.
But the Brisbane-born fly-half is keen to avoid being pigeon-holed as a risk-adverse number 10 who just excels from the tee and boots the leather off the ball.
He certainly showed that at Rodney Parade in April 2012 when he masterminded a defeat of the Dragons, scoring a clean sweep of a try, two conversions, two penalties and a drop goal.
"I like to organise things but I also enjoy having ball in hand and I probably haven’t had that at Treviso for the last year or so," he said.
"I haven’t had as much to do in attack because of the patterns and the way I’ve been asked to play.
"I am sure there will be plenty of chances to have a go this season, we want to have an attacking game plan and that’s the only way you win games.
"Of course kicks make a big difference but I’m not just going to focus on that and as a team we want to play expansive rugby."
Burton will be in Wales all season long after retiring from international rugby, a decision he made before winning the last of his 21 caps in the 2013 Six Nations.
And it’s just as well that he won’t be jetting off during the autumn, February and March because there is more competition than he expected for the 10 jersey following the return of Tovey from Cardiff Blues.
"I’ve played against Tov and Steffan so know they are quality players," he said. "There’s great competition and I’m ready for the challenge.
"I think we are different types of players as well, so I suppose there are options for the coaches.
"It’s all a new experience for me and I can’t wait for the season – change is always good.
"I’ve always been interested in playing in the UK, the chance has finally come and I want to make the most of it."
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