The England Under-21 defender joined the Magpies from Wigan last month and has admitted that Steven Taylor played an important role in his move.
Ryan said: “The fact I was mates with Steven made the decision to join Newcastle a bit easier. It was handy knowing someone who could put me right about things in the north east.
“I met Steven at the England Under-21s.
“We got on well and kept in touch – and when he told me about Newcastle being interested I was buzzing.
“It makes it easier when you know someone when you arrive at a new club.
“We had a laugh the night before the West Brom game. He told me to put one in from a corner and he’d head it home. It turned out exactly like that – it was weird. We’re both defenders who like to score goals. We are looking to keep it tight at the back – and find the net going forward.”
