TIPS from ex-France front rower Olivier Azam could help the Dragons claim another Top 14 scalp at Rodney Parade this afternoon, writes Chris Kirwan.

The ex-Gloucester hooker/prop has spent the opening months of the season assisting the region after accepting an invite from his former boss Dean Ryan.

The 45-year-old, who won 10 caps for Les Bleus, has provided an extra voice for the pack when working alongside forwards coach Ceri Jones.

South Wales Argus:

"It has been great to be involved with the Dragons. There are a lot of good things going on at the moment, a lot of good change," he said.

"Dean is bringing in new things and from what I can see, from spending some time with them, the boys are enjoying it and working hard. Slowly the team is getting better.

"I am trying to bring a bit of help to the front row, especially in the scrum. Leon (Brown) is making massive progress in all of the front row work so I am pleased with him.

"I am really pleased with how much they are all keen to work and keen to learn. It is an extra voice, from me, to try to help.

"There is a good mix here. There are lots of good young front row players who are eager to learn and to play, which is what you want.

"There are also guys who have got a bit more miles on the clock, like Richard Hibbard who is doing a great job at getting these young kids to be ready to play for Dragons."

Azam, who played for Tarbes and Montferrand (Clermont-Auvergne) before heading for Gloucester, had spells on the management teams at Toulon, Stade Francais and Oyonnax and has provided some welcome knowledge of what is coming this afternoon.

"Castres is a big historic club in French rugby, but a club that is not doing as well as it is used to this season," he said.

"But you can be sure, in a new competition and with less pressure than the Top14, they will bring a big pack and they will challenge. If they get chances they will be very dangerous."