Ospreys head coach Mark Jones says Beard will be missed and hopes the next generation of locks can fill the void.

"Beardy's influence has been ever present in his time at the Ospreys," said Jones.

"He will leave a big hole as a player, a set-piece expert and a leader.

"The Ospreys have historically placed a high importance on having a strong front five and he has been a key contributor in that for a long time.

"He's an elite professional but most of all, a great person.

"While we'll miss Beardy's presence at the club, we have high hopes for a lot of our second rows that have come through the ranks recently.

"His departure will provide an opportunity for those boys, along with any new additions we have, to step up as leaders."

Wales captains Dewi Lake and Jac Morgan have signed new deals to stay at Ospreys next season, while Ross Moriarty is set to join from Brive.