Manager Frank Lampard is happy with the start his Derby County side have made to the Sky Bet Championship season - but is keen to remained grounded heading into the international break.


The Rams have enjoyed a good start to the campaign and won four from their opening six fixtures to occupy a top six berth going into the two-week gap without a fixture.

They sit fourth in the division and have also progressed to the third round of the Carabao Cup, facing a trip to Old Trafford to face Manchester United later this month.

The manager admitted to RamsTV: “There are positive signs. I’m happy with the start but I always want more, however you can’t always have that.”

Lampard appears to have made a seamless transition into management but emphasised the fact it is only the start of what he is trying to build with the Rams.

He said: “I didn’t know what to imagine because it’s new for me, but I know football, I know a training ground, I know a club like this, I know what the fans want and expect and there have been a lot of surprises for me, but in a good way.

“I can be overall pleased with the start. I think the work ethic of the whole club from top to bottom, the moves we have made trying to bring players in, the application of the squad, the backroom staff, not just my staff but the whole club, have really impressed me so that gives us a good base.

“Success in the future is what we are working towards and this is just the start.”

The manager has been an instant hit with the Derby County fans since his arrival at the club and he appreciates their support.

“It means we are doing well and the fans are happy with what we are doing,” he said.

“We have that nice bond and if they are happy then I am happy. Little celebrations on the pitch are my appreciation to the fans for travelling and supporting us.

“We aren’t going to get above ourselves. We aren’t celebrating as though things are done because it’s not, whether that is in the Carabao Cup or in the league.

“There is a long road and it won’t always be bouncing, and it won’t always be nice things, but we will keep working. We want success here and we appreciate our fans following us all over the country.”

Derby County are back in action on Saturday, September 15 as they travel to the New York Stadium to take on Rotherham United.