Newport Gwent Dragons coach Darren Edwards has insisted that Dan Lydiate can force his way into the Lions squad for the summer tour of Australia.

The flanker, who was named player of the tournament in the Six Nations last year, has been out of action for six months with an ankle injury.

However, he made his return for the Dragons on Friday, with Edwards claiming that the Welshman can play a part for Warren Gatland's side this summer.

"A month is enough time for a player of Dan's quality to prove himself worthy of a Lions spot. He has worked very hard and all he needs is to blow away the cobwebs," he told reporters at a press conference.

"I am sure Warren Gatland knows what balance of team he wants and knows that Dan, with his hard hitting and physicality, would have stood out for Wales against England."

Lydiate has made 27 appearances for his country.