JASON Forster could be in line to make a surprise return to Rodney Parade early in the new year as forwards coach succeeding Leigh Jones who is leaving to take up a post as coach development manager with the Hong Kong Rugby Union.

Former Wales flanker Forster was an iconic figure at openside flanker for Newport and the Dragons, boasting an incredible try scoring record as well.

He was hugely popular with the fans and was the first recipient of the South Wales Argus Dragons' player of the year trophy, voted for by the supporters.

He captained the Dragons in successive seasons in 2004-05 and 2005-06 and made a total of 182 appearances in seven seasons with Newport and the region, scoring a remarkable 68 tries.

Once his playing career was over he went into coaching, initially with Doncaster in England Division One before joining Welsh Premiership top team Neath. But he fell out with them and was then appointed head coach of National Division Two South club Henley.

Another possibility as new Dragons forwards coach is Colin Charvis, currently doing two days a week as part-time defence coach.

“I've had a chat with him and he'll have a think whether he can combine that with his other interests,” said Turner. “But whoever it is has got to be quality and keep the ball and the continuity rolling.

“Darren Edwards (backs coach) is also doing a fine job, he's got ideas about guys we can approach. I've known about this with Leigh for two weeks, it’s a bit of a blow but that's rugby for you. It's sad for me because I came back to the region and knew Leigh, but this is an opportunity for him, it's not ideal in the season but he goes with our best wishes.”

Jones will link up with former Dragons colleague and backs coach Dai Rees who left a year ago to became Hong Kong’s head coach. Jones almost got the job as Canada coach two years ago, but was pipped by New Zealander Keiran Crowley.

He wants to get into the coach development field and will leave the Dragons at the beginning or the end of January depending on their situation in the Heineken Cup.

He has been at Rodney Parade for a decade as coach of Newport and then working as Dragons assistant since the introduction of regional rugby.

“During my time with the Dragons year on year we made progress under sometimes difficult circumstances,” he said.

“I know Paul and the rest of the coaching team will continue to do a great job. Darren and Charv are young, enthusiastic coaches who I'm sure can carve out successful careers.”

When asked how the team could progress Jones replied, “It's been well documented that there's a need for more investment in the infrastructure of the Dragons - that's probably the key to future progress supporting the hard work of the players and the coaching staff.”

Asked about a possible successor Jones said, “I'd love it to be another Gwent man, that would add a bit of spice and passion. The whole Dragons concept means so much more if it's an ex-player as well.” All of which points to Forster who would be welcomed back to Rodney Parade by many people.