Winger Corey Blackett-Taylor says he is ‘excited to get started’ at Derby County following his move from Charlton Athletic.
Winger Blackett-Taylor joins Derby from League One rivals Charlton on an initial loan deal until the end of the season ahead of signing a permanent basis in the summer.
Speaking to RamsTV for the first time, the 26-year-old spoke about his decision to make the move to Pride Park Stadium.
On signing for the club…
It feels good. I’ve spoken to the manager a few times. There was interest last summer but I’m just happy to be here now and finally get it done.
On why Derby County is the right place for him…
It’s a massive club, everyone knows that. I’m happy to be on board. I believe in the project for the next 12 to 18 months and I feel like this will be a place where not only will I have a chance to play in a higher league but also develop as a player as well.
On Paul Warne’s influence in the signing…
He’s been massive. I like to go into clubs where I have a clear understanding of what the manager wants from me and how he sees me fitting into the team, and he was essential in that.
On Paul Warne as a character…
I feel like there’s a certain belief that he has in me. I think I thrive personally when I feel I have the backing of a manager. I feel like I can play free here, he’s got trust in me and feels I can keep going on and keep getting better. As a player, that’s the kind of guy I like to play for.
On his excitement for the remainder of the season….
The league position is a big factor to why I came. I looked at the table and I believe I can add a lot to the team and help them get into the higher leagues so that was a big part in my decision making to come.
On knowing Kane Wilson, Nathaniel Mendez-Laing and Conor Hourihane already…
I had a few messages beforehand from the lads and I knew if I had anything to ask, I could speak to them. It makes it easier because I’m not coming in blind, and they are people that know me and understand my personality, so it makes it a little bit easier.
On his first impressions of the place…
I used to come here with Aston Villa's Academy many years ago but straight away when you come in you see how big the place is. Seeing all the pitches and the facilities, I think it’s definitely going to be somewhere I enjoy being every day.
On his time with Charlton Athletic…
They helped me get everything going. I went there initially on trial and every season I kind of kicked on to the point where I am now. I feel like I was having a very good year with them but with all the things we discussed earlier, I feel like this was the right time to go and explore this new challenge and I’m ready for it.
On whether he’s confident he can replicate those performances with Derby…
There’s a lot of things in my personal game that I’ve improved. I feel like I’m a different player and I can’t wait to get going. With the conversations I’ve had with the manager, he’s already told me how he sees me improving and how I can fit into the team so I’m looking forward to it. It’s been a long time coming but I’m here now and I’m excited to get started.