Niall Horan, who is undoubtedly Derby County’s most famous supporter, was a surprise visitor at the side’s training camp in Surrey earlier this week.
The singer and songwriter, best known for his time in the world-renowned band One Direction before embarking on his own solo career, popped in to watch Wayne Rooney’s side being put through their paces at their base outside of London on Tuesday afternoon.
Horan, who is 27, has been a Derby supporter all his life and had the chance to watch the squad in action during training and speak to the Rams’ players.
The Irishman was involved in the launch of the Rams’ popular pink third kit last season and needed little encouragement when Rooney offered him the chance to pay the group a visit.
“I was chatting to Wayne, I’d heard the boys were down near London, and he said to come over and see the lads in training,” Horan told RamsTV.
“I was messaging Wayne, it wasn’t planned, and he asked me to come over and have watch - and I said: ‘I’m on my way!’
“I’ve seen an 11 Vs 11 game in training, so it’s been good to see what Wayne’s trying to do shape wise and stuff like that.
“I stood at the back of the room for the team meeting too and it was very interesting to see what goes on behind the scenes at a football club.”
He added: “Everyone knows I’ve been a Derby fan for as long as I can remember and to be able to come and see them is great.”
Horan, like all Derby fans, has had to watch matches on from home for the last 16 months due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In-between his work commitments, with a new album on the horizon for the global star, he is eager to get back to Pride Park Stadium this season as the UK Government begins to lift lockdown restrictions and welcome supporters back to stadiums.
He is also confident that Derby, under Rooney’s management, can kick on in the 2021/22 season after a disappointing campaign last time out.
“I’ve known Wayne for a long time, from his kids coming to my gigs and stuff like that, and it’s amazing to have him as our manager,” he said.
“He is England and Manchester United’s all-time goalscorer and hopefully Wayne can really kick this team on.
“I hope to get to Pride Park soon, one hundred per cent. I know we have got some supporters in this weekend for the Manchester United game, which will be good.
“Any Saturday that I’m free, either at Pride Park or in London, I’ll try and get there. My dad is going all the time and I’d love to get back and enjoy some football.”