Ospreys: Kristian Phillips rejoins former region from Scarlets

Kristian Phillips became Ospreys' youngest player and try-scorer in 2008

Wing Kristian Phillips has rejoined Ospreys on a one-year deal after leaving Scarlets.

Phillips, 24, started his career at the Liberty Stadium before heading to Parc y Scarlets in 2012.

During his time at the Llanelli-based region the wing made 54 appearances scoring 10 tries.

"This is my home region. It's where I learned my trade. So I'm obviously really pleased to get the opportunity to re-sign for the Ospreys," he said.

"It's great to be back. I know the place but it's a different environment to what it was when I was here last, in terms of the culture and everything.

"I feel that I've improved as a player while I've been away and I'm looking forward to continuing my development this season and, hopefully, challenging for a place in the matchday 23 week in, week out.

"It's up to me now to put the work in if I want to achieve my goal of playing for the Ospreys regularly."

Phillips is the fourth new face to join the Ospreys for the 2015-16 season, along with ex-New Zealand scrum-half Brendon Leonard, Welsh back-row Gareth Delve and prop Paul James.

Ospreys rugby general manager Andrew Millward said the former Wales Under-20 international will add depth to the region's squad.

"Kristian is a familiar face who is coming back to his home region, and he will provide the coaches with another option for what will be a long and challenging season," said Milward.

"We know all about his undoubted quality and his electric pace, something he has always possessed.

"He left here as a 21-year old and he returns as a player well on his way to 100 senior appearances, but he now needs to make the next step in his career.

"He's matured while he's been away, and has grown to appreciate what we can offer him here at the Ospreys in terms of that ongoing development.

"He has a clear idea of what we want from him on and off the field, and what is needed if he is going to achieve his full potential."

Meanwhile prop Ollie Evans has been awarded a development contract after impressive performances for Narberth.