Knight display in midfield is praised as ‘extraordinary’

PHILLIP Cocu described Jason Knight’s performance in Derby County’s 1-0 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road as “extraordinary”.

Knight reverted to a central midfield role alongside Graeme Shinnie in the Championship clash.

The 19-year-old produced a tireless display and still had the energy to surge forward and win a free kick in the 87th-minute from which skipper Wayne Rooney won the game for the Rams.

Phillip Cocu does not normally like to single out individuals, and especially in a team performance that delighted him, but the manager was full of praise for Knight.

“I would like to talk about Jason Knight because his game was extraordinary, for me, given his age, and that he played in a new position,” said Cocu.

“He had been playing on the wing but played with Shinnie, and they both played excellent for the team - a great game.”

Knight is the only player to have started all six of Derby’s League and cup matches this season, showing the faith Cocu has in the youngster.

“I just enjoy watching this player on the pitch. I am sure he has a great career ahead of him,” Cocu added.

“He has something within himself, so I never have to tell him. Attitude will never be a problem with him, he is a winner type.

“He did great, played really well in a connection with Shinnie, and they won a lot of second balls. His (Knight’s) running stats are always unbelievable.

“We have to be careful not to talk too much but I think he deserved it.”