3/1 To Win
Ryan Allsop has praised Derby County’s supporters for their unconditional support over the course of the 2021/22 season so far.
Derby’s fans have stuck with the side throughout one of the most testing campaigns in the club’s long and proud history.
As well as having a 12-point deduction for entering administration in September, the Rams were docked nine more points for a historical breach of profitability and sustainability rules in November.
With 21 points taken away from their return this term, it has plunged Wayne Rooney side into the bottom three and fighting to remain in the Sky Bet Championship.
Despite that, the Rams’ fans have turned out in their numbers both home and away and achieved a 32,000 sell-out at Pride Park Stadium for Sunday’s 2-2 draw against Birmingham City.
The attendance was the biggest in the Championship so far this season and Allsop has stressed that the supporters’ efforts are not going under the radar.
“I think the support that we get is incredible and it’s going such a long way in regard to trying to get a resolution for what has been going on for a long time now,” Allsop told RamsTV.
“It doesn’t go unnoticed and it’s massive for us as players to see the support that we’re getting to go forward, step on the pitch and represent Derby County and the fans and try and bring pride and desire into our performances.
“We are getting that in abundance from the crowd so it can’t be overlooked; we can’t thank them enough for what they’re doing.”
Allsop, 29, joined Derby on a one-year deal ahead of the new season and he has made 16 appearances in all competitions.
He has started the Rams’ last eight league games and believes he is settled in the side but knows he cannot take anything for granted.
“It takes time,” Allsop said. “It’s a massive club to be associated with and to play for.
“I have settled with the way the team is playing and the way we like to impose our game on others.
“I think it’s a brave style of play to try and put into practise. We are trying our best to do that and we’re learning and improving every week in that style.
“In terms of the run of games I’m having, I couldn’t be happier as I wanted to come here and play. I have great competition with Kelle Roos and we push each other hard every day in training and he is great to work with, as is Jason Pearcey and the young boys who train with us.
“I’m delighted to be playing and just want to keep playing well and keep that shirt.”
Next up for the Rams is a trip to Huddersfield Town on Wednesday (7:45pm kick-off).
The Terriers are chasing a top six spot, but Allsop says Derby are a match for anyone on their day.
“We have improved our style of play each week and we don’t fear anyone in the league,” Allsop said.
“We have to concentrate on ourselves, make sure that we play our game to our full capabilities and then results will come as long as we concentrate on what we can do best.”
