Louie Watson is keen to grasp the opportunity to impress at Derby County with both hands.
Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Watson is in line to be named in the Rams’ starting line-up for Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup Round Two tie at Sheffield United (7:45pm kick-off).
Manager Wayne Rooney has indicated that several youngsters will once again get the opportunity to impress against the Blades, after featuring in Round One against Salford City.
Watson, who has been in and around the first-team squad for the last eight months after impressing at Under-23 level, is looking forward to the challenge of taking on the Blades at Bramall Lane.
The 20-year-old knows the importance of making the most of any chance that comes his way in order to force his way into Rooney’s starting line-up on a regular basis.
“The mood in the camp has been exceptional,” Watson told RamsTV when discussing Derby’s start to the season, after picking up one win and two draws from their opening four league games.
“I think the boys have done tremendous and everyone is in a good mood and ready for the upcoming games.
“Sheffield United have just come down from the Premier League, which is arguably the best league in the world, so we know it’s going to be a tough challenge but in a cup tie anything can happen.
“No matter what league you’re in or what team you play for, we can’t focus on where they have been or how well they are doing, we need to go there and know we are going to win the game. That is what our mindset should be.”
He added: “I’ve been brought up knowing that every game is a stage to show what you have got so I think it’s important for everyone that we take that opportunity and use it to propel us. Tomorrow is going to be a real challenge, but we are all ready for it.
Watson played the full 90 minutes in the thrilling Round One tie against Salford City at Pride Park Stadium two weeks ago.
The game ended in a 3-3 draw after 90 minutes before the Rams ran out 5-3 winners on penalties.
Watson scored Derby’s winning spot-kick on the night and he described the way the side claimed the victory, after being 2-0 and 3-2 behind, as special.
“On a personal note and as a collective, for the younger boys coming up and making their debuts, it was a much-needed result,” he said.
“Everyone really enjoyed the game. The ending was special so I think if we do that again tomorrow then we will be in a good place.
“I think now we are in and around the first team, age doesn’t really come into it. Everyone should step up.
“Everyone who has done, has done that exactly, so we are all looking forward to it, no matter what the age or players, we are ready for the challenge.”
