By Lestyn
April 19 2004

Percy Montgomery has signalled his intentions to end his playing days with Newport Gwent Dragons. The South African back is negotiating an extension to his current contract amid attempts by the SARU to lure him home. Bok’ Montgomery notched up 23 points on Saturday from outside centre, has been in form suited to his World class reputation since returning from the suspension that ruled him out until December last year.

Form that has re-ignited interest from South Africa, but the 30 year old would prefer to stay in Gwent, where he is now settled with his wife;

"I'm looking to stay for good. South Africa want me back, so we'll have to wait and see.

"But I've got a family now and I'd rather commit myself here totally and maybe not play international rugby again,"

That is unless South Africa reassess it’s strict policy on not picking players outside the country for international duty.

"I've got to do what's best for me and my family, but as long as Tony Brown is here and committed then I want to be here as well.

"We have proved a cut above other teams. In the beginning we were not playing for each other, but it's good to see now and we can build on it and go further.

"There's a good team spirit and a good mix with all the younger players. We just give them confidence and they keep sharp like Nathan Brew who got two fantastic tries against Cardiff Blues."

Montgomery has urged the Dragons, Tony Brown to invest so the region can go from strength to strength

"We've got a good team, but you've got to have a strong squad, especially to do well in the Heineken Cup," he said.

"We need that in order to compete with teams like Toulouse, and that can only do the club and Welsh rugby good."

Fellow bok’ albeit of the Welsh variety Dragons captain Andy Marinos is set of an unlikely move into administration, taking over from current incumbent David Jenkins as the regions’ chief executive next season