Defeats to Wasps and Bordeaux-Begles meant the Welsh region dropped into the Challenge Cup last 16, but they did secure a home tie against Northampton, who also moved across from the Heineken Champions Cup.

And an added bonus for Dean Ryan’s side is that should they defeat Gallagher Premiership high-flyers Northampton in the last 16, Rodney Parade will host a quarter-final clash against either Ulster Rugby or Harlequins.

“We're looking forward to the Challenge Cup campaign and potentially playing both knockout games at Rodney Parade,” Ryan said.

"Northampton are having a strong season in the Gallagher Premiership and it will be an exciting tie against a side who Dragons have recent history with in this tournament. We look forward to the European challenge ahead."

Dragons last met the Saints in the 2018/19 Challenge Cup pool stage, where the Premiership side came out victors in both matches.

Dragons director of rugby Dean Ryan has said he is looking forward to the European challenge they face next month when his side host Northampton Saints in the last 16 of the European Rugby Challenge Cup.