Hard But Fair, So Far!

Derby County’s week-long training camp in Tenerife is edging towards its conclusion – and its been given the thumbs up by Curtis Davies.

Gary Rowett’s side flew out to the Canary Islands last Sunday and will return home on Saturday to continue their preparations for the 2017/18 season on home soil.

The week away has provided Rowett with the opportunity to spend quality time with his players, both on and off the training pitch.

For new signing Davies, it has also been an opportunity to integrate himself into the group.

The 32-year-old defender, who joined Derby from Hull City last month, has quickly settled into life in the squad.

On the pitch, Davies feels the Rams have enjoyed a positive period of work to date.

He has clearly been impressed with the varied approach to the training, with football sessions being complemented by running and gym exercises at their on-site complex.

Davies told Derby’s Facebook Page in a live Interview: “It’s been hot most of the week so we’ve had a good sweat on.

“Everyone’s working hard driving towards the goal of being fit for the start of the season.

“We did a bit more football work this morning but I am sure we’ll be doing some more running later on

“We’ve had the sessions mixed between football, running and weights in the gym; it’s been hard but fair as well.”

On getting to know his new team-mates, he added: “I’ve said before that I am aware of most of the squad and that you only really get ‘in’ with people is by talking to them.

“I’ve been going chatting to the staff and players and I’m happy to be part of the squad.

“We’re staying in villas and that’s good, as we’re in large groups.

“I am sharing with Bradley Johnson, Chris Martin and Johnny Russell. I knew Bradley anyway, but I am rooming with Chris and also got to know Johnny more too, so you get a better connection with those players.

“However, we’re all together here as a group and all eat together as well – so there’s time to get to know everyone.”

When putting pen-to-paper with the Rams, Davies stated that of the key reasons behind his move to Pride Park Stadium was the quality of players in Rowett’s squad.

A week into pre-season training, he retains the same view and is targeting a strong season in a Derby shirt.

He said: “The quality of this group is one of the reasons that I signed and it was a big decision to come here.

“I am hopeful it is good enough to take us up. We have seen the quality already after a week of training and you want to see that when the season starts.

“The lads have put in some good sessions and done some good things.”