Rio Dyer: Wales wing signs new 'multi-year' Dragons deal
- Published
Wing Rio Dyer made his debut for Dragons against Saracens in 2018 and has scored 18 tries in 52 appearances
Wales wing Rio Dyer has boosted the Dragons by signing a new "multi-year" contract to remain at Rodney Parade.
Dyer made his Wales debut against New Zealand in November 2022 and has made 14 appearances for his country, scoring four tries.
The 24-year-old was part of the World Cup squad and was this week named in the Six Nations party.
"It's a proud moment for me to sign and show my commitment to my home club," said Dyer.
"I've been here since I was with the Under-16s, have grown up alongside many of my team-mates and enjoy the environment that has been built here by Dai Flanagan (Dragons head coach).
"We have a lot of talent in the squad I believe we can grow with. We haven't had the best of years or seasons, but we've got something good going on here now and everyone's buying in to it.
"We are confident we can turn the stigma around and start getting more wins and putting in better performances, not only for ourselves, but also for our fans who come to watch and support us throughout."
Dragons have managed to keep hold of Dyer and will be hoping Wales number eight Aaron Wainwright will follow suit.
If Dyer had joined a club outside Wales at the end of the 2023-24 season, he would have been ineligible to play for Gatland's side because of Welsh rugby's 25-cap rule.
Those players leaving Wales for new sides are required to have 25 caps to be able to continue to represent their country after the number dropped from 60 in February 2023.
"We are absolutely delighted Rio has committed to his home club," said Flanagan.
"We want to retain our best young talent and build our club around talented, driven and ambitious Gwent men who are proud to represent us.
"Rio personifies that and is a key figure for us going forward.
"His development over the last few seasons, for both club and country, has been truly impressive, alongside his attitude, professionalism, and desire to continue to improve.
"He wants to be a part of what we are building here in the long-term and we're thrilled that his story will now continue as a Dragon."