Robbie Savage is approaching the start of his 19th season in professional football...and believes Derby County are ready for the curtain-raiser at Leeds United on Saturday.

The 35-year-old says the Rams' opening day encounter at Elland Road is a game the whole squad are relishing.

Savage isn't shy in telling everyone this has been his 19th pre-season, but he is just as enthusiastic and eager as he was 19 years ago.

"Pre-season has been good on the whole and I imagine this week will be short, sharp and exciting," he told dcfc.co.uk.

"It is a big week for us, but we're all up for it and ready to go.

"The time has flown by, that happens when you are working hard and enjoying it.

"We're all excited and ready for the challenge at Leeds.

"It just depends on the day who can play the better football.

"Personally, I cannot wait. It is really exciting; I still can't believe I'm here playing at this level and I am so appreciative."

Looking back on the Birmingham game, Savage felt there was plenty to be positive about.

"It was a good performance," he said.

"We just didn't capitalise on the first 20 minutes when we dominated.

"After that they got to grips with us, but we carried on playing our game.

"The formation is doing well for us, and I think the fact our left-back (Gareth Roberts) scored, our substitute left-back (Dean Moxey) missed a great chance and our centre-back (Dean Leacock) put the three best crosses in proves how comfortable we all are with it.

"As a squad we believe in the system, it works for all of us.

"We just have to keep the belief."