Derby County midfielder Liam Thompson says he was 'over the moon' to be back in the starting line-up and play his part in the 1-0 victory over Fleetwood Town in Sky Bet League One on Saturday.
Thompson made his first start of the 2023/24 season in the win, secured thanks to striker Martyn Waghorn's first half strike, and was awarded the Player of the Match award for his performance.
Speaking to RamsTV after the game, the midfielder gave his verdict on the three points.
On the performance...
I'm over the moon today. I thought it was a good team performance, we dug in at the end and it got a bit nervy but I thought all round it was a good performance and a brilliant result. Losing at home is not nice and to get that first win is brilliant. It's a bit of a relief and gives a bit more confidence going into games now.
On feeling the nerves at the end...
I've got full confidence in the lads and I thought the defence was outstanding today, every single one of them. Not just the defence though, the whole team and everyone as a unit I thought we looked much better today.
On what Paul Warne told him to do...
He told me to be busy and try and have a good relationship with the two strikers whether that's going short or going in behind and I feel like it worked at time and we caused them a few problems. He told me to play without fear, not just me but everyone and I thought we did that today. I was shattered at the end but it's the running you do for the lads, it's a team effort.
On having a run in the side...
It would be amazing if I could but I know that comes with performances and I know you've got to keep the shirt. I know how good this squad is, it's a small squad but there's so many good players and everyone is fighting for the shirt. I've got to focus on myself, keep the attitude right and hopefully go on a bit of a run.
On making his 50th appearance for Derby...
I'm really proud to have made 50 professional appearances for the club I've been at since I was 14. It's an amazing feeling and it's just nice being back out there and winning at home.