Derby Telegraph

Cool Roo inspired Knight with true ‘grit’ in crisis

YOUNGSTER LEARNT PLENTY ABOUT DETERMINAT­ION FROM EX-RAMS BOSS

- By BRUNA REIS & LUKE PAWLEY

JASON Knight praised Wayne Rooney for being a “calm head” during his time as Derby County manager.

The midfielder, who played at fullback in the Rams’ opening game of the season against Oxford United on Saturday, said Rooney’s composure kept the club together during so much uncertaint­y at the club last season.

“I think with the situation that was going on, he was a calm head and in a tough situation,” said Knight.

“He showed a lot of calm in tough moments and I think that was reflected in the squad and some performanc­es.

“I think I’ve picked up a lot of things, not only that. But he’s shown really good character.”

Asked about what he had learned from the former England and Manchester

United striker, the 21-yearold added: “Just his grit and determinat­ion.”

STRIKER Bobby Duncan has left Derby County, it has been confirmed.

Spanish third division side Real Balompedic­a Linense have announced the signing of the 21-year-old on a three-year contract.

Duncan leaves Pride Park Stadium after almost two years, during which time he made one senior appearance in an FA Cup third round defeat by Chorley.

The striker was out of the picture at Derby but under contract until the summer of 2023. He played for Wigan Athletic, Liverpool and Manchester City as a youngster before joining Fiorentina and then the Rams.

He was tipped for bright things during his time with Liverpool and City but it has not worked out for

Duncan, who is the cousin of former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

DERBY County are “clear favourites” to sign young Everton striker Lewis Dobbin on loan, according to football website The Athletic

The 19-year-old progressed through the youth ranks at Everton before making his first-team debut last season. He signed a long-term deal in January and is now set to head out on loan.

Everton boss Frank Lampard said: “Lewis Dobbin is one where a loan, probably, will be the best thing for him. He was great last year, trained well and showed energy and spark. But it’s a good time for him to go and play.”

The 19-year-old is described as a quick and versatile attacker who can operate across the front three positions. According to The Athletic, “Derby Country are the clear favourites for his signature”.

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 ?? ?? Striker Bobby Duncan (above) and Lewis Dobbin.
Striker Bobby Duncan (above) and Lewis Dobbin.
 ?? MAIN PIC: ANDY CLARKE. ?? Jason Knight on the ball for Derby County during last Saturday’s home win against Oxford United and (inset) former Rams boss Wayne Rooney.
MAIN PIC: ANDY CLARKE. Jason Knight on the ball for Derby County during last Saturday’s home win against Oxford United and (inset) former Rams boss Wayne Rooney.

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