3/1 To Win
Derby County’s Under-23 defender Max Hunt is ready to make the most of his second chance as he gets set for a potential debut against Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
The 18-year-old joined from Matlock Town in January to add depth to Darren Wassall’s squad, and he watched from the stands as the Rams took on Liverpool in Premier League 2 – Division 1 last weekend.
It’s fair to say that Hunt was impressed with what he saw.
He told RamsTV: “It’s a good standard, very physical and demanding but to be there at Liverpool last week and see the performance that the lads put in, it was frightening really.
“We battled from minute one and we deserved a point at least, there were some great performances and hopefully we can take that into this weekend.”
The centre-back believes that his previous experience in the game will help to drive him on and impress during his time with the Rams.
Hunt was released by Nottingham Forest and Mansfield Town as a youngster, before Matlock Town gave him a break.
He said: “To come from a non-league environment to a place like this, it makes you appreciate everything that you’ve got and it just makes you want to kick on to become a professional footballer.
“I always wanted to get another shot, I never gave up and I work hard every day, and now that I’ve earned a contract here, I just want to continue that and see where it can take me.”
Wassall’s side took the three points when they faced United earlier this season, with Jason Shackell and Offrande Zanzala on the scoresheet.
Hunt can sense that belief is high in the dressing room, and he is ready to make an impact, starting with the visit of the Red Devils.
He added: “It’s a massive game and confidence is high, so we’ll back ourselves to get a result.
“I know it’s hard to walk into a side straight away, but when I can help the lads out, I’ll be looking to do that.”
