Dragons director of rugby Ryan has seen his team been hit hard by Covid-19 and rugby-related injuries, but is still eager for a festive battle.
“I’m just expecting a really good derby game,” he said.
“If anyone has managed to be consistent in this time then they’ve got the magic formula! It’s stop start and people are coming in and out.
“I don’t think inconsistency is something which can be levelled at anyone. I’m looking forward to a great derby. Let’s get out there and enjoy playing.
“When the backdrop is what it is, let’s just enjoy a full-blooded derby.”
Ryan’s opposite number – Blues head coach John Mulvihill – won’t be in Newport for the Christmas derby after being identified as a Covid-19 close contact.
It is a sign of the times as rugby prepares to bring an end to a chaotic 2020.
“I don’t expect the game to change that much,” said Ryan.
“Obviously it’s without the emotion of the supporters there, but these rivalries have gone on for how many years.
“I expect it to be fully committed and physical, even though we don’t have the added impact of crowds.”
Ryan saw Covid-19 withdrawals and injuries hit his squad hard ahead of their first two rounds of Heineken Champions Cup action.
They suffered defeats to Wasps and Bordeaux Begles and will know the results of their latest round of coronavirus testing on Wednesday.
Ryan said: “What we do know is the group prior to Wasps is back in training for the first time today.
“There was a significant number compromised in that situation and they’ve returned.
“For everyone, it’s a weekly thing now and we’ve got to structure our weeks to work out the best way through. A squad that is resourced as we are is always challenged when we lose that front line.
“We gave two guys senior professional debuts in Bordeaux and that’s what the Dragons is and always been.
“The challenge of Covid added to a small and under-resourced squad is just an additional problem.”
