An Interview with a Rival... Derby County

Ahead of Leeds’ fierce Friday clash with playoff contenders Derby, Keith Ingham spoke to @BuckTaylor64 about all things Rams.

How long have you supported Derby County and why did you choose them as your team?

I have been a fan for about 49 years since I was 5 years old and derby became my team due to the influence of an uncle. I'm actually Lincolnshire born and bred, but have family links with the county.

What’s your favourite moment as a ‘Rams’ fan. Season, game or anything other occasion.

Back in 1975. We won our second league title with a game to spare under Dave Mackay and our players came out with Champions on the back of their tracksuit tops! I was only a nipper, but felt ten feet tall! There is nothing better than winning your national title as it was then over 42 matches!

Tell us about a player that you were proud to have on the back of a shirt, if you didn’t is there one you wished you would have.

I had number 11 sewn on the back of my shirt when Charlie George signed for us. He's one of my all time favourites from all the years I have been a fan. However, a few months later we bought Leighton James from Burnley who took 11 and George moved to 10. I wasn't impressed! I still have a number and player on my shirt nowadays, but it's an all time great player from the past. Currently have 6 and Todd for Colin Todd. It just wouldn't do to have a young lads name on the back.

What’s your most memorable match playing Leeds?

Most memorable game with Leeds? Easy one this and I'd guess that anyone as old as me will say the same. The infamous match where Francis Lee of Derby and Norman Hunter of Leeds were involved in a punch up on the pitch. We won 3-2 and it was on Match of the Day that night too!

Are you happy with your dealings in this summer’s transfer market?

I am as happy as I can really expect to be! Past spending by previous managers has meant that Frank Lampard has had to sell to generate funds for new players. Vydra went for 11-13m, but we got 2m for Gary Rowett from Stoke and another 2.5m for Tom Ince due to an add on when we sold him to Huddersfield.

What’s your realistic aim for the season?

I think we can make the top 6, but then again we could finish lower. The division is very tight and theres still a dozen or so clubs who could still make it.

Who in your mind is going to be promoted this season?

To go up. Leeds, West Brom and Villa.

Can you name your three for relegation this year?

Ipswich are nailed on for relegation for me, Reading and Bolton look doomed too! but I think one of them might just avoid it and Rotherham may slip down!

Who’s your danger man?

There’s 3 tbh. Jack Marriott, Mason Mount and Harry Wilson. It's difficult to separate them. Wilson is deadly with free kicks and Marriott is a natural predator!

One of the most efficient attacking forces in the league to date

Can you tell us about a rising star in the youth ranks?

Jayden Bogle has broke into the firstteam this season, but if you want a name to look out for in the future, Louie Sibley! The boy is a massive talent and will make the step up very soon.

Prediction and scorers for the game?

Well we have a very good record overall against Leeds in the last 10 years or so, but they are a different beast this season. They have been the best side to visit Pride Park, but I think we can get a 2-2 draw. Marriott and Wilson to score for Derby.

We’d like to thank Andy for taking the time to answer our questions and wish him the best of luck for the season, I think most fans watching tonight would be happy to see both clubs return to the top flight.

By Keith Ingham