Rooney: “We Have To Be Ready To Go Again”

Wayne Rooney says Derby County’s players and fans need to be ready to put in another big effort when they return to Sky Bet Championship action on Wednesday evening.

After recording a dramatic and late 1-0 home win over Peterborough United on Saturday, Derby are back at Pride Park Stadium for their final home midweek fixture of the season against Millwall.

The weekend victory saw the Rams leapfrog Peterborough in the table and move into 22nd place in the table; a remarkable feat considering the club being deducted 21 points this term.

Derby are looking to continue to chip away at their points total as they look to claw their way out of danger and Rooney knows another big effort will be required against Gary Rowett’s Lions under the Pride Park floodlights.

Rooney’s side have one of the strongest home records in the league, but the Rams’ boss is taking nothing for granted and knows another big push is required.

“Saturday was a big win for us,” Rooney told RamsTV. “It was a tough game in terms of it being energy sapping and we have had to look after the players since then to get ready for Wednesday.

“Millwall are a good team and difficult to play against so we will have to make sure we are ready for the challenges and make sure we give our best account of ourselves to try and get the win

“They have got some good, experienced players mixed with a bit of energy as well so we know we will have to be at our best to win the game.”

He added: “It’s always important that your home form is good; we don’t want anyone coming to Pride Park and going away with any points and I think the players know that.

“The support from the fans has been great and we need that again. We need to make Millwall know they are in for a tough game. I’m sure they already know it will be tough for them, but we just have to keep doing what we’re doing and keep trying to pick up points.”

Skipper Tom Lawrence will miss the game as he starts a three-match ban as a result of his second half dismissal against Peterborough.

Matchwinner Louie Sibley and attacking midfielder Ravel Morrison both came off the bench to play their part in the win, while Richard Stearman is set to return from suspension and Lee Buchanan and Colin Kazim-Richards are close to returning from injury.

Rooney says everyone will have a part to play in the final 14 league fixtures of the campaign.

“Whether that is someone scoring a winning goal or defending and clearing balls out the box, everyone has a part to play and we’re all working together to win each game,” Rooney said.

“Whoever scores, I don’t really care; as long as someone does! On the other hand, it’s always great when your attacking players are scoring goals.

“As I have said all year long, if someone is injured or suspended, it’s an opportunity for someone to come in and try to claim that place.

“Tom Lawrence is suspended now, so it is an opportunity for someone to come in and show me what they can do.”