NEW recruit Ross Moriarty was unfazed by the Dragons' nightmare season after accepting a deal to head to Newport from Gloucester.

The Wales back row forward penned a two-year contract with the Rodney Parade region in November.

The 24-year-old, who toured New Zealand with the Lions in 2017, watched on as Bernard Jackman's side endured a torrid second half of the campaign that saw them finish with seven straight losses.

However, the head coach was plotting for his second season at the helm and Moriarty didn't have second thoughts about becoming a Dragon.

"The results didn't bother me at all, I wasn't signed for the season just gone and I am looking forward to the one coming up," he said.

"That's what Bernard spoke about, that he was giving boys a chance that may not have had one in a top team. That means next season they are going to be ready and more experienced, that's what we need.

"I am not worried about anything – there are a lot of players coming in and a lot have left. It's going to be a completely different squad and then the younger players will have had that experience if called upon.

"We will have a strong pack and I am really looking forward to playing alongside everyone. I really like the sound of what Bernard says and I am excited for next season."

Moriarty endured a frustrating sixth and final season with the Cherry and Whites after being hindered by the back injury that he suffered in the first game of the Lions tour then being on the fringes once his departure was confirmed.

He played against Scotland, England and Ireland in the Six Nations for Wales this year but had just five outings for his club.

The back rower, however, has allayed fears that he will have to manage the injury carefully and limit his game time.

"My back is really good, I haven't played too much rugby this season but maybe that's added an extra year onto my career," he said.

"I went into Wales camp this week to get myself as fit as possible. The conditioners have a say into what the Dragons do sometimes and they work very closely together, so I am looking forward to being in tip-top condition.

"Certain things in the gym I have done less of, or maybe shouldn't have done [after the injury] that hindered it a bit.

"It's always in the back of your mind that something might happen again but at the moment it's right."

Moriarty made 86 appearances for Gloucester after going to Hartpury College and coming through the ranks.

He became a firm favourite at Kingsholm and hopes to have similar backing from the Rodney Parade faithful.

"I started playing there at 18 and got to play in front of a really good crowd, which I am hoping we will get here next season," he said. "I will be looking to get people in those seats by playing exciting rugby."

Moriarty's season is not over - he has been released from his contract early by Gloucester so that he can play a full part in preparations for Wales' summer tour before becoming a Dragons player in July.

"Gloucester let me go early so that I could play," he said. "I am in a fortunate position and I am grateful for that.

"I am looking forward to the tour and it's nice to be involved in training with Wales again."