New Dragons deals for livewire Williams and playmaker Lewis

The duo are currently sidelined by serious knee injuries but will return for next season after signing fresh deals.

The Dragons have not specified the length of the contracts but the Argus understands that both full-back Williams and fly-half Lewis will be at Rodney Parade until at least 2022.

Williams arrived from Bristol in the summer of 2018 and established himself in the XV, playing in 33 of 39 fixtures.

The 26-year-old speedster, who toured South Africa with Wales in 2014, scored the Dragons' try of the season last year with a dazzling effort at Leinster and scored a front-runner for this term's award with a side-stepping solo try at Zebre.

Williams suffered a season-ending knee injury in November's European Challenge Cup win against Enisei-STM in Krasnodar but is relishing a return to the region's back three.

INFLUENTIAL: Jordan Williams has been a regular in the Dragons XV

"I've enjoyed my time back in Wales with Dragons so it's great to agree the contract extension and commit my future," said the former Scarlet.

"It's an exciting time to be at the region as we aim to continue to make progress. I'm excited about achieving our ambitions and being part of that journey over the coming seasons.

"It's frustrating to be injured and miss the second half of the season. But I'm working hard with my rehabilitation and look forward to getting back out with my team-mates and pulling the jersey on again."

Lewis was set to rival new recruit Sam Davies for the 10 jersey but ruptured knee ligaments in pre-season.

The former Ebbw Vale fly-half signed from Bath in 2018 and enjoyed an impressive finish to his first campaign at Rodney Parade, making 22 appearances and scoring a key try in the Judgement Day upset against the Scarlets.

Lewis is on the comeback trail but is unlikely to be rushed, with the 27-year-old from Aberdare instead eyeing a return to the XV next season.

NEW DEAL: Josh Lewis will battle Sam Davies for the 10 jersey

"I'm delighted to sign the new contract and commit my future to Dragons," said Lewis, who was a stonemason before earning a shot as a professional.

"It's been a frustrating time with my injury, particularly after finishing last season on such a high with the Judgement Day win at Principality Stadium, so I'm looking forward to making my return.

"To secure my long-term future at Dragons is a big boost for me and my family and my focus remains on making a successful comeback.

"It's been a great season for the boys and I'm gutted to not have played any part in it, but I can't wait to start to work with Dean Ryan and the other coaches and contribute once again."

Director of rugby Dean Ryan has leaned heavily on playmaker Davies in the absence of Lewis and has been down to the bare bones at full-back after losing Williams.

The boss is pleased to have retained the services of the duo as he builds a squad for his second campaign at the helm.

"Jordan is a talented runner who brings an attacking and dynamic edge to our game," said Ryan.

"We're looking forward to his return and I'm sure fans at Rodney Parade we be excited about watching him play again now that we can confirm he is staying with Dragons."

"Josh is determined to come back stronger from injury and I've been impressed by his attitude and commitment to his rehabilitation," he continued.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him back in action and contributing to what we are looking to achieve over the coming years."