George Evans told RamsTV that he had no hesitation in joining Derby County and renewing acquaintances with Frank Lampard.
The 23-year-old became the Rams’ fifth signing of the 2018 summer transfer window, joining the club on a three-year contract from Sky Bet Championship rivals Reading.
Evans is a player that Lampard knows all too well.
The pair worked together at Manchester City during the 2014/15 campaign. Evans, then a young Academy prospect on the fringes of the first team, worked closely with the now Derby boss and spoke of how that year proved to be a ‘big learning’ curve for him.
“We had some time together whilst we were at Manchester City,” he said in his first interview as a Derby player.
“I was in and around the first team at the time and he helped me a lot. As a young player, you just sit back and listen to players like that. It was a big learning curve for me working with whilst I was there.
“It was a no-brainer. The opportunity to work under the manager was important, as was the size of the club.
“This is a big football club, and this is a good opportunity for me. When I heard of the interest here, it was something that I just wanted to go for.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be here. This is a massive club and a great opportunity for me to come in and work for this manager.
“I can’t wait to get started. This is a big moment for me and I am very happy.”
Evans played a key role in the Reading side that came within a whisker of sealing a return to the Premier League in 2017.
The midfielder played 43 games in all competitions as the Royals reached the Play-Off Final and he clocked up more than 60 appearances in his time at the Madejski Stadium.
Now about to begin the next chapter of his career, Evans also explained what Lampard is expecting of him in a Rams shirt.
“He wants me to bring energy,” he said. “I have seen some of the results that they have got so far this pre-season – there have been some really good results – and it looks as though the lads have had a great pre-season.
“It’s up to me to come in and show what I can do. I want to get on the ball, keep playing, and show my energy.”
Ironically, Evans’ Rams debut could see him pit his wits against his former club.
Derby will kick start the 2018/19 campaign with a trip to Berkshire to face Paul Clement’s side and it is on that note that we conclude this first interview.
“I’m really excited about that,” he added. “Hopefully I am involved and we can get that win!”
