NEWPORT Gwent Dragons summer target Ian Gough has left the Ospreys – but a return to Rodney Parade isn’t on the cards.

The 36-year-old former Wales lock has left the Swansea-based region after reaching an agreement on terminating the final year of his contract.

Gough headed west in 2007 after 11 years at Rodney Parade with Newport and then the Dragons.

The region looked into bringing the 64-times capped lock back this summer following the collapse of the deal for South African forward Martin Muller but nothing came to fruition.

Another move looks highly unlikely following the rise of young lock Matthew Screech, who is battling for a spot in the second row with captain Andrew Coombs, Adam Jones, Robert Sidoli and Ian Nimmo.

Gough featured for the Ospreys in their pre-season loss at Bath last Friday but is now set for a new challenge.

“With sadness it’s time to announce that I am leaving the Ospreys by mutual consent,” he said.

“I have been at the region since 2007 and have enjoyed every minute of my time here. The welcome I had and the friends and memories I have made will stay with me forever.

“I’ve enjoyed on field success with the team, winning trophies, and have also been lucky enough to help with coaching the young regional age grade players within the set up who I believe have a massively bright future and will help take this region forward.

“I consider Swansea my home now. I wish everyone at the region the best of luck for the future and look forward to watching you play and enjoying a few beers with friends there when able.”