Steve McClaren wants Matej Vydra to grasp the opportunity to shine after an impressive showing at the weekend.
The 24-year-old Czech Republic international striker has had first-team opportunities limited in recent months, but impressed in his first start since 2nd January in the 2-1 home win over Barnsley on Saturday.The summer signing from Watford has made 28 appearances in all competitions this season, of which 13 have been in the starting line-up.
With Darren Bent occupying the central striker role in the 4-3-3 formation - scoring 12 goals to date - Vydra has had to wait patiently in the wings.
A change in formation on Saturday, with Derby reverting to a 4-2-3-1 shape, saw Vydra line up on the left-hand side of the three supporting frontmen behind David Nugent.
He produced a lively display as Derby got back to winning ways and set up Nugent to score the winner 14 minutes from time, slipping a delicate pass into his path inside the box.
McClaren admits Vydra has been ‘unlucky’ recently, but has moved to praise his attitude and application.
He told RamsTV: “He’s been unlucky but from day one his attitude has been excellent.
“He is not a lone striker; he plays in a two. We’ve had to play him there because we’ve only had Darren Bent (prior to David Nugent’s arrival in January) and Nick Blackman has been injured.
“He has been thrust into that position and he has shown a great attitude towards it.
“He has been a bit unlucky and he has scored the best goal that hasn’t been given this season for us, the transition goal against Leeds for offside.
“Every single day, he has plugged away. He’s not moaned or sulked; we all have bad days but consistently he is there.”
McClaren says he held a conversation with Vydra last month and his position within the team was discussed.
He came off the bench at Blackburn last Tuesday and looked lively in behind Nugent, with his display at Ewood Park earning him a place in the side from the off against Barnsley.
McClaren explained: “We spoke to him a few weeks ago and he said the lone striker wasn’t his position.
“He spoke about playing as a second one (in behind the striker) or out on the left-hand side.
“He felt he could do a job there and we’ve given him that opportunity.”
