THE Newport Gwent Dragons have signed Cardiff Blues and former Wales Under-21 captain and hooker Duane Goodfield on a two-year deal with the region.

Goodfield has appeared 26 times for the Blues, with experience in the Magners League, Anglo-Welsh Cup and Heineken Cup.

He has gained international honours throughout all youth levels and also captained Wales Under-21s in Argentina in 2005.

Dragons head coach Paul Turner said he was excited about welcoming the 23-year-old to Rodney Parade: "Duane is of very good pedigree and a lot of people within the Blues region speak highly of him.

"He is a young and up and coming hooker with lots of potential and a big career ahead of him.

"He will add to our strength in depth that is needed within the squad and we are delighted that Duane has committed to the region."

Goodfield said: "I'm looking forward to becoming part of the Dragons squad next season and am hoping for a fresh start in terms of my career.

"I had the opportunity to play some great rugby throughout national age grade tournaments and captained Wales Under 21 in Argentina under the development of one of the Dragons coaches, Dai Rees. I'm excited about a future at Rodney Parade."