FORMER Ebbw Vale supremo Jason Strange has been appointed as Cardiff Blues’ backs and attack coach, writes Chris Kirwan.

The former fly-half will head to the Arms Park next season after spending four years as Wales Under-20s head coach.

Strange, who laid the foundations for the Steelmen’s stunning Principality Premiership triumph after guiding them back to the top flight, is relishing a return to senior rugby as assistant to new Blues boss John Mulvihill when Danny Wilson leaves for Wasps.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed the last four years with Wales Under-20s,” said the 44-year-old, who led the youngsters to a Grand Slam in 2016.

“I have some great memories and it’s been a huge honour to watch players go on to earn senior professional contracts and full international honours.

“It’s been a great experience for me as a coach and now is the right time to take the next step.

“I have gained valuable experience with Ebbw Vale and Wales Under-20s and the natural progression is into the day-to-day professional environment with Cardiff Blues.

“It’s a very talented squad and the exciting thing is it hasn’t reached its peak, there’s still a lot of growth and I’m confident they can achieve great things both collectively and individually.

“I have worked with a lot of the boys previously and I’m really excited by the long-term vision the Blues and John Mulvihill have set out.”

Meanwhile, legendary Wales loosehead Gethin Jenkins, 37, has agreed a one-year contract extension with the Blues.