NEWPORT Gwent Dragons chief executive Gareth Davies says he is flattered after being tipped by Cardiff Blues chairman chairman Peter Thomas as the “ideal man” to replace Gerald Davies on the board of the Welsh Rugby Union.

British Lions icon Gerald Davies announced last week that he would not be seeking re-election after serving as national representative for nine years.

Thomas believes former Wales and Lions fly-half Gareth Davies is the perfect fit for the position.

“He is a hugely respected man who is held in high regard throughout the game,” he told the Western Mail.

“Gareth has done it all. He is a former Wales captain and a British Lion. He has a wonderful business background, he is good with the media, he is Welsh-speaking. He ticks every box imaginable.

“He is a statesmanlike figure. He is perfect for the job.”

Gareth Davies, who has been with the Dragons since last summer, wouldn’t need to leave his role at Rodney Parade if he decided to put himself forward.

He said: “I am flattered, and Peter is very kind, but must admit I haven’t given it too much thought.

“I have been so busy (with Regional Rugby Wales’ negotiations with the WRU over a fresh participation agreement) and would need to consider something like that very hard.”

Former Wales prop Anthony Buchanan, who is currently Llanelli director of rugby, is mulling over whether to throw his hat into the ring.

WRU chairman David Pickering is currently a national representative and an election would be necessary if there is more than one new candidate.