Anya: “We Know We Have To Pull Our Weight”

Ikechi Anya says Derby County’s players are well aware that they need to pull their weight if they are to be in Gary Rowett’s long-term plans.

Rowett oversaw nine games before the conclusion of the 2016/17 season following his appointment in March.

Anya, 29, made 27 appearances in total over the course of the campaign following his arrival from Watford on the final day of the 2016 summer transfer window.

The Scotland international feels there are plenty of encouraging indicators that Derby could have a successful 2017/18 campaign under Rowett, with the versatile performer highlighting the manager’s honesty and man-management skills as two key qualities.

However, he insists that every player is well aware that they will have to give their all if they are to be part of the club’s future.

Rowett has hinted at changes being made to his squad during the summer and Anya says it is down to each individual to make the most of the fresh start when pre-season training begins towards the end of June.

He told RamsTV: “I think there are some encouraging signs under the manager and one of his greatest assets is that he is honest.

“He tells the players what he wants from them and if you don’t deliver, he will let you know about it!

“He has spoken about the fact that there will be some changes, but that’s natural. We know that if we want to be in the privileged position of being here at this club, we’re going to have to pull our weight.

“If we don’t, there are clearly others who would be more than happy to fill your position.

“We have the guidance that we were perhaps lacking. I think with his experience; next season has the potential to be a successful one.”

He added: “We wanted to end the season on a good note and we certainly did that in our last home game with a win and a decent performance against Wolves, followed by our lap of appreciation to thank the supporters.

“Hopefully we see plenty more of that next season.”

Derby finished 2016/17 ninth in the Sky Bet Championship table following Rowett’s arrival, resulting in the Rams’ tenth successive season in English football’s second tier.

In the nine games that Rowett oversaw, Anya believes the 43-year-old quickly established the sort of qualities he wants to see from his players.

“The hard work ethic is the biggest thing he has introduced,” he said.

“The manager has been a grafter and has that quality about him.

“You can see in the games later in the season that he’s managed to get performances and results out of us; the form we showed towards the end of the season wasn’t so bad.

“I think with more time, establishing his own squad as well, things will only improve.