Loach: “I Am Going To Push The Lads In Front Of Me”

Scott Loach knows he will have a key role to play in Derby County’s squad during their 2022/23 Sky Bet League One campaign as he aims to offer valuable experience to the goalkeeping department.

The goalkeeper, who has penned a one-year deal, has arrived to pass on his vast experience to Derby’s other shot-stoppers as the Rams prepare for life in the third tier of English football for the first time since 1986.

Loach, who is vastly experienced having played over 500 competitive games to date, has linked up with the Rams from National League side Chesterfield and is looking forward to the challenge which presents itself at Pride Park Stadium.

The 34-year-old spoke to RamsTV about the role he will play in Head Goalkeeping Coach Jason Pearcey’s goalkeeping department.

On Joining Derby…

It feels really good to be here. It’s an unbelievable place, it’s an unbelievable club and it’s a good opportunity for me to come here and enjoy this stage of my career and offer my experience as well. The move was a bit of a surprise. I’ve played at this level for a long time and I’ve been around the block a bit now. I think the role (as third choice) with goalkeepers is coming in a lot now where there is an experienced one and if I can pass on any advice and help the young goalkeepers here then that’s fine. I will be there for them and raise the tempo of training and do the bits behind the scenes that people don’t really see. I’m grateful to be here.

On His Role In The Group…

I am going to push the lads in front of me and be there for the team and be called upon when needed. I have not come here to lie back and sit down and just train every day, if I work hard and get the opportunity then I will be very grateful and that’s what I’m pushing for. I love playing and I want to play, but I’m also sensible and realistic so if I can help Joe Wildsmith and the other goalkeepers out there then that’s what I’m here for.

I try and look after myself. I know my own body and I love playing football. If you look at the facilities and the size of the club, to be here is an honour so it’s something I’m willing to adapt to and if I can push and give the team an extra 10% in the department where they haven’t had it before, and it brings the best out of people here, then that’s my job.

On Goalkeeping In General…

The principles stay the same in terms of keeping the ball out of the net. I think you can say it’s more physical lower down the leagues, but the game has changed a lot now with the ball at your feet, so you have to be more precise. I feel at this level and even in the Championship and Premier League, you don’t have much to do - but there is no room for error. You have got to bounce back from a mistake quickly and get on with it. You have got to be a lot more consistent but I think the actual terms of goalkeeping is pretty much the same.

On His Impressions Of Derby As An Opposition Player…

It’s always been a good game against Derby. The last time I played at Pride Park I saved a penalty from Jamie Ward so if I can replicate that then I will be buzzing! As I said earlier, it is an unbelievable football stadium. The fanbase is great and I’m honoured to be here. I’m looking forward to being at the club and hopefully I will be able to step out at Pride Park whilst I’m here, show what I’ve been doing and also just offer my services around the club.