Magners League form should lead to lock's recall

Newport Gwent Dragons boss Paul Turner believes his star second row is doing more than enough to earn a starting shirt for Wales' Six Nations clash with Ireland.

The 26-year-old produced a superb display for the Dragons in their draw with Ulster on February 19 as he responded in perfect fashion to his demotion from the Welsh starting line up.

Charteris was a regular starter during the autumn internationals but has had to settle for a bit part role with his country since featuring in last month's defeat to England.

Even with injury to Ospreys lock Alun Wyn Jones and Jonathan Thomas' move to the back row following Andy Powell's suspension, Charteris was overlooked in favour of Blues duo Bradley Davies and Deiniol Jones for the recent defeat to France.

But former Welsh international Turner has no doubt that recent regional form should put Charteris in pole position to start the trip to Dublin a week on Saturday.

"You would have thought he would be starting against Ireland in Dublin," Turner told BBC Sport Wales.

"Luke played well for us in Ravenhill a couple of weeks ago.

"It would be great if he can put in another performance against Munster on Saturday."

Turner also believes Charteris has produced the goods whenever his country has come calling but he suggests that the 6ft 9in giant hasn't always been utilised in the best possible manner by his country.

He hopes that Charteris' assured display in his 55-minute substitute appearance against the French will count in his favour ahead of the Croke Park encounter, especially as Deiniol Jones has been ruled out through injury.

"He played out of his skin on Friday night and should go straight in," added Turner.

"His work rate is second to none, his general work rate and defence are very good.

"It would be good if Wales started throwing the ball near to him and he could win the odd line-out."