3/1 To Win
Charles Vernam was understandably beaming with pride after making his professional debut for Derby County in last weekend’s Emirates FA Cup tie at West Bromwich Albion.
The 20-year-old Academy graduate came off the bench for the closing stages of Derby’s 2-1 victory over the Premier League side at the Hawthorns.Vernam has been in fine form for Derby’s Under 23s so far this season and the striker’s impressive showings, as well as scoring ten goals before Christmas, saw him land a new contract before 2016 was out.
He says the moment proved to be a special one for both him and his family.
On top of making his first-team bow, Vernam says the trust placed in him by Steve McClaren to help Derby see out the game made the occasion even more special.
He told RamsTV: “It was a crazy experience really and a bit unexpected, but it was great to get on and make my debut for Derby County.
“It was tight in the game at that stage and we were winning 2-1 going into the last few minutes, so to be called on by the manager and to trust me at that time means a lot.
“It was a special occasion to get on and make my debut in a game like that; I will look back on the day with so many proud memories.
“There were so many supporters there, over 5,000 in the away end, and the noise was unbelievable.
“I had played at the Hawthorns before for the Under 23s and to do it in a situation like Saturday was totally different and it made a massive difference.
“It was huge moment for me to make my debut against a Premier League and I am thankful that I got the opportunity.”
Vernam isn’t resting on his laurels after becoming the latest player from the club’s Academy to make a first team appearance.
He says his feet will firmly remain on the ground as he looks to continue to make steps in the right direction.
Now though, he is aiming to see if he can remain in the first-team frame and try to build on his outing in the West Midlands.
He said: “This is another massive step forwards for me.
“It’s a massive highlight and I know more than anyone else I have to keep my feet on the ground.
“I want to work towards more appearances and, in the long-run, make a start for Derby County.
“That’s the aim and I will keep working hard.”
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