Derby County forward Nathaniel Mendez-Laing says he loves 'everything about the club' that he now considers as his home.
The 32-year-old had his best ever season from a personal point of view in 2023/24, registering a superb number of goals and assists, and his performances ultimately earned him a spot in the Sky Bet League One Team of the Season.
From 46 league appearances he contributed heavily with nine
goals and 15 assists, totalling 24 goal involvements overall. He played four more times in cup competitions, adding a goal and two more
assists to his tally in the process.
Speaking to RamsTV in the week after automatic promotion to the Championship was secured with a 2-0 home win over Carlisle United, Mendez-Laing reflected on what has been a 'special' season for him and his team-mates.
On how he's been feeling since last weekend's promotion...
It was a special time and special memories made with everyone. It was a great day for the club as a whole; my family, all the lads and staff - it was just a great day.
On when he really started to believe the job was done...
When I came off at 2-0 up against Carlisle with 10 minutes to go, I really started to feel we'd done it. It's still such a surreal feeling. When the whistle went and seeing the pitch invasion, it was unbelievable.
On how close the group have been this season...
Being close plays a big part in being successful. The lads who aren't starting games, you still need to support the lads and being ready for when you do come on. Even the lads that weren't in the squad, they play a big part in being successful and to achieve the goal at the end, it's all worth it.
On his own personal success in the campaign...
The main aim was promotion, so now I feel I can appreciate the personal accolades a little more. If we hadn't had won promotion then they'd have just been brushed under the carpet. I'm happy to have had what was probably my most successful season on the pitch.
On whether he feels Paul Warne has got the best out of him...
That's what the numbers say! I get on the with manager so well. The stuff that you build off of the pitch helps when you go onto the pitch. He gives me a freedom that I do feel gets the best out of me. I've got great players around me also that make the job a lot easier. I'm buzzing with the season I've had and hopefully we go again next year.
On his own personal journey...
I've been asked the question a few times about how this promotion feels different to others. Promotion to the Premier League was obviously unbelievable when I was at Cardiff City but with the journey that I've been on and having my children there now, it just feels so special and it was quite an emotional time.
On the fact he's now played more games for Derby County than any other club...
I love it. I've said it in many interviews, I'm so happy here. I love everything about the club and I'm excited to go and make great memories next season.
