3/1 To Win
Rory Delap says ‘anything is possible’ after a ‘tremendous’ performance by Derby County’s Under-18s in their 3-0 victory away to Stoke City.
A thoroughly dominant performance capped with a first-half brace by Louie Sibley and a further goal by Fuseine Rashid sent Derby level on points with Premier League – North leaders Manchester City.
The win also extended Derby’s unbeaten run to five matches in all competitions, and the game drew vast praise from Delap.
Following the impressive display, the professional development phase coach told dcfc.co.uk: “I thought the lads were tremendous, every one of them.
‘’We started really well, which we always try to do, we always try to get a good start and do the basics really well in those first five to ten minutes, which they did and more.
“They were far more composed than in any other game this season on the ball. Our all-round performance was probably the best of the season.”
The difference maker was undoubtedly Louie Sibley, who scored twice to take the game away from Stoke City at key periods of the match.
Delap was pleased with the midfielder’s contribution and his progression: “He’s technically very good and today he scored two really good goals.
“He’s an exciting prospect to have at the club but we just need to keep him grounded.
‘’He’s got a good head on his shoulders so hopefully he can go on and keep improving.”
Another major factor in the manner of the win was the performance of captain Fuseine Rashid – the Swedish central defender bossed the back line and showed increasing maturity in an excellent display.
Delap spoke of Rashid’s progress since joining the Rams: “He’s done really well since he’s come in from Sweden and settled into life really well. There’s a lot of work to do with him but some of his attributes are fantastic.
‘’When he does keep things simple he is aggressive, he is on the front foot and he puts performances in like he did today and again he is an exciting one if he carries on.’’
Delap once again spoke of the character of his players, highlighting what an important asset it is for a young player and how it can affect players moving forward.
He said: “They wouldn’t be at the club if they didn’t have the technical ability or tactical nous. These are all intelligent boys.
“What gets them a career and to the top level is their attitude and character and as I say you can’t fault that from this crew.
“It’s a real plus to have in your purse – it’s a tough one to coach but it is in these boys and they are seeing the fruits of the reward of putting in the hard work, the performances are getting more consistent.
“They can go wherever they want, the real positive is that it is not just this group but the group below as well with the Under-16s stepping up – not just making up the numbers but performing too.
“Anything is possible if they believe.’’
Words by Jools Jordan-Probert
