Dragons coach Dai Flanagan has been widely praised for his decision to stand down full-back Angus O'Brien for a number of games after he suffered yet another head injury.
The 28-year-old suffered two concussions in three matches and will now not play for some time despite progressing through and passing return to play protocols.
O'Brien has been in fine form as the region's first-choice full-back but concussions against the Stormers in December and the Scarlets on New Year's Day mean he has been removed from the firing line for a number of weeks.
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He is expected to miss games against Pau, the Lions and Glasgow prior to the break for the start of the Six Nations.
“Angus will be stepped down for the block after two concussions in three weeks. He is fine in himself but it’s a decision that I am making more than him,” said Flanagan.
“I need to protect these people and nobody actually knows what goes on inside the head. As much as he is getting through the concussion protocols, we have made a decision to stand him down so that he comes back stronger after the next couple of games.”
The move has been lauded by England World Cup winner Steve Thompson, who is suffering from early onset dementia. Lobby group Progressive Rugby have also described Flanagan's intervention as "amazing".
Thompson said: "Two years ago this definitely wouldn't have happened. Such a great step forward for player welfare. What a coach Dai is. Thank you so much."
Former Welsh player Lenny Woodard, who has also been diagnosed with early onset dementia, added: "This is refreshing to hear , well done Dai and the Dragons."
Former Wales lock and Scrum V pundit Andrew Coombs described Flanagan's call as "modern-day coaching at its finest".
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