Robbie Savage was one of the first players to arrive at Moor Farm to report in for pre-season training yesterday, and admitted: "I'm ready to get down to some serious hard work".

The Rams' 35-year-old midfielder is embarking on his 19th pre-season as a professional footballer.

He says his enthusiasm to get stuck in is just as strong now as it was when he began his first pre-season many years ago.

Savage's fitness during an injury-ravaged 2009/10 campaign for Derby will never come into any question, as he played in every single Championship fixture.

"It has been a long summer, and like all the lads I've really looked forward to coming back," Savage told Rams Player.

"It has been good to see all the staff and players again, and we're ready to get down to some serious work to prepare for the season.

"This is my 19th pre-season and I'm really looking forward to it.

"It is an exciting time for all footballers and I suppose it is a bit like starting your first day at school all over again.

"I enjoy the work just as much as I did when it was my first pre-season.

"I feel in great shape and I'm really looking forward to the season."

Look out for more from Robbie on Rams Player.