IEUAN Jones says his "disgusting" treatment at the hands of Cardiff Blues hasn't quashed his desire to make it as a professional with the number eight hoping he can earn a Rodney Parade return.

The former Newport Gwent Dragons back row forward will play for Cross Keys in the Principality Premiership in the coming season.

The 22-year-old from Aberbargoed will combine his rugby with work as a carpenter but hasn't given up on returning to full-time ranks despite a season from hell.

Jones moved from Rodney Parade to Cardiff Blues last summer but only played for the Arms Park side in pre-season friendlies before being told he was surplus to requirements by then head coach Mark Hammett, aptly nicknamed 'the Hammer' given the back rower's profession.

"The way that I was treated was disgusting," said Jones, who was signed by former coach Phil Davies. "I was told that I wasn't part of Hammett's plans without even being seen in action.

"It seemed that my face didn't fit and there was no real explanation. I was dumped on.

"I went to pre-season to be told that they didn't want me before I had even been given an opportunity, and I wasn't the only one.

"I was bitterly disappointed with how things worked out but I still have the ambition of being a professional and playing for Wales."

Jones, a member of the Wales Under-20s side that were runners-up at the 2013 Junior World Championship, hopes to follow the example of current Dragons forwards James Thomas and Andrew Coombs by earning another shot in the pros by excelling in club rugby.

He enjoyed a spell on loan at the Ospreys last season and gave a reminder of his talent when winning man of the match against Connacht on debut in the Guinness Pro12, making a remarkable 17 carries before being forced off with cramp due to his lack of game time.

Similar displays at Pandy Park will make the Dragons hierarchy, as well as other clubs, sit up and take notice.

"I still want to be a pro and I am still ambitious," he said. "I will take it step by step and I know that the first thing that I have to do is work hard at Cross Keys, get in the team and shine.

"When I was with the Dragons I played for Keys and I know how good the coaching team is. My performances have to be excellent and if I play well I believe it can still happen for me.

"I didn't fall out with anybody at the Dragons and I'm from Gwent so I'd love to earn another chance and James Thomas showed it can be done. It's up to me now."