FORMER Dragons tighthead prop Nicky Thomas says he has "unfinished business" after returning to Wales on a two-year contract with the Ospreys, writes Chris Kirwan.
The 25-year-old will head to the Liberty Stadium next season after being with Bristol in the English Premiership.
Thomas was highly-rated when he came through the ranks at the Ospreys and played for Wales Under-20s.
However, the heavyweight prop has been on the move throughout his career with the fitness issues a constant barrier to first team rugby.
He played for Gloucester, the Scarlets and Bristol before landing a chance at the Dragons under Bernard Jackman.
Thomas pledged to "pull his socks up" and work on his mobility to go along with strong scrummaging but his time in the east ended after just eight games.
He has been with Bristol this season and has made three European Challenge Cup appearances and is relishing a return to Wales.
"There is unfinished business for me with the Ospreys," said Thomas. "It feels like a new era, a new chapter for the Ospreys, it is an exciting time to be returning home, and this is something I really wanted to do, play for the Ospreys.
"It's like there is a line in the sand has been drawn with a new head coach, Toby Booth, and Mike Ruddock being involved. I know it has been a tough season there, but for me this is just an exciting challenge."
Ospreys general manager Dan Griffiths believes they can bring the best out of Thomas.
"Nicky is a product of the Ospreys Academy, and from the moment there was an opportunity to return to the Ospreys you could see and hear the passion and enthusiasm he has for the club," said the former Newport fly-half.
"He has always been regarded as a very good scrummager, and did extremely well with Wales at U20s level.
"Through time and experience he has learned that there is more to the game, and has matured at Bristol this season and put in some consistent performances.
"He is still only 25 and has his best years ahead of him. Nicky knows that the opportunity to return to your home region doesn't often come around in rugby, and he is determined to apply himself and contribute to his home region.
"Tighthead is a crucial position and as we have seen this season, and it is important to have a strong depth chart with players that can give the team a solid platform to perform from set piece.
"Bringing Nicky home to the Ospreys will provide strength and experience which is crucial in terms of the balance our squad."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here