Martyn still smarting at top-tier snub
MARTYN WAGHORN has a score to settle in the Premier League and believes Frank Lampard’s Derby would thrive there.
The Rams striker sunk Hull City with a clinical brace to smash the 100 barrier in career goals in the 2-0 win.
Asked if he had unfinished business in the Premier League, Waghorn, 29, who made just six appearances for Sunderland in the top tier, said: “Yes, definitely.
“The club are all set up to be in the Premier League and we have a great opportunity.”
Derby are now unbeaten in five games, while Hull manager Nigel Adkins said: “We didn’t produce the
quality we have this season.”
Lewis Grabban scored his 16th goal of the season as Nottingham Forest beat Brentford 2-1.
Forest manager Martin O’Neill said: “You need someone who can get 20 goals a season. Look at Billy Sharp at Sheffield United with 20-odd.”
Stefan Johansen’s free-kick set up Dwight Gayle for his winner as West Brom pipped Stoke 1-0.
The Norwegian said: “We have a good enough squad here to gain automatic promotion, and another promotion would be a fantastic achievement. That’s what I’m aiming for.” Stoke goalkeeper Jack Butland raged after his defence just switched off for the goal and his skipper Danny Batth said: “It was disappointing. There were numerous occasions to clear.”
A goal from George Byers sealed Swansea’s 1-0 win over Millwall in their first home game since Huw Jenkins quit as chairman after 17 years.
His departure followed the exit of three players on deadline day as well as bungled deals to sell Daniel James and Leroy Fer.
But Byers said: “As players, we have to show professionalism and that means coming
in every day and giving our all.”
Millwall manager Neil Harris said: “When we tried to force a ball through into a forward runner we didn’t execute the pass well enough. That’s the difference at this level.”
Midfielder Ben Pearson wants Preston to build up a head of steam following their 2-1 win at Bolton.
“Things are coming together and we need to keep the run going,” said Pearson.
Bolton boss Phil Parkinson said: “We can’t afford to give away cheap goals.”
Preston had goalkeeper Declan Rudd to thank for a late save after Clayton Donaldson had reduced the deficit.