Gary Rowett expecting new manager bounce from Derby County at Nottingham Forest

Manager Gary Rowett says his Derby County players must not lose focus of their task against rivals Nottingham Forest.
New Rams boss Gary RowettNew Rams boss Gary Rowett
New Rams boss Gary Rowett

The Rams go into Saturday’s East Midlands derby having lost three of their last five under now ex-boss Steve McClaren.

And, following a week which has seen a change at the top, Rowett wants his new squad to keep sight of the three points.

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Rowett said: “The mood around the place has been great. Usually, in my experience, players respond and there’s a natural lift with a new manager.

“We’re trying to put simple and clear messages across to the players, with consistency in how we deliver them to bring confidence.

“The challenge of the first week is about fitting in as much work and messaging as possible - without losing sight we want to win.”

Rowett made more than 100 appearances for Derby as a player during the 1990s and knows what is expected when facing Forest.

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He added: “I get what characteristics the Derby County fans want to see on show from the team at Nottingham Forest.

“We want to flourish in the environment on Saturday. It’s obviously a big game for both teams and they have a new manager too.

Mark Warburton is a good guy. I caught up with him recently on a coaching course. No doubt he is looking forward to the challenge.”