"Christmas is always a great period in the rugby calendar. It's a happy time where families and friends all come down to enjoy a game of rugby together and that's something I think has remained from the amateur days.

"We have three rugby games over a short space of time and it will be a real test for the whole squad, especially after such a tough period over the past few months.

"These are the games you want to be a part of. There will be big crowds,everyone will come and watch. It's a shop window for international selection. You play against the boys in your position, who are challenging for Wales selection. It has the potential to make or break your international career.

"We have played against the Scarlets once already this season but it will be a totally different game, we will be back to full strength and it will be our first derby on home soil. The Scarlets have lost quite a lot of locks last season including Lou Reed coming to the Blues. Obviously they have some big lumps in there who are going to charge us like any other team.

"Rugby in my opinion is won upfront so I am putting more pressure on myself to perform well. On the pitch I'm not really happy with the way I have been performing recently, but hopefully I can get my act in gear and help the Blues string together a few wins over this stage in the season.

"Then we have the Dragons on Boxing Day. They are that team that you think you'll beat but they keep their heads in the game and they always throw up surprises.

"Boxing day matches in particular will bring a great feeling to the city centre. For me, it will be good to get back to the rugby ground with history and the atmosphere that comes with it. It's a family event and something that all the boys are look forward to being a part of. In addition, it will be the first time the Dragons are back at the Arms Park for a long time so hopefully it will be a great match."

There are only a limited amount of Stand Tickets available left for this match which can be purchased by calling 029 2030 2030.