3/1 To Win
Full back Kwaku Oduroh has admitted the lure of a rebuild project at Derby County was too good to turn down as he became the latest name to join the Rams this summer.
The right back, who skippered Manchester City’s Academy side last season, has signed a two-year contract with Derby, having spent time on trial with the club in recent weeks.
The 19-year-old impressed during his 45-minute outing against Bradford City last Saturday and believes the club is in the perfect place to aid his development as a player.
RamsTV spoke to Oduroh about his eagerness to get started and how important the bond is between himself and his family.
On Joining Derby…
I’m over the moon and delighted to be here. With my situation at the end of the season with Manchester City, there were a lot of clubs interested. Derby was one of those and I really liked the sound of the project and I really wanted to be part of it. I bought into it and came down for a couple of days and I was delighted with what I saw - and it’s all come about from there.
On Pre-Season So Far…
It’s what I expected because it’s a step up from Academy football but it’s also what I want. I want to develop as a person and a professional but I think I am heading in the right direction. At this age, it’s the right time for me to move away from home. If I had moved when I was younger, I would have found it difficult but I’m a young man and growing so it’s time for me to take that step to better myself.
On The Support Of His Family…
Their support has been amazing and it’s been crucial, not just now but through every stage of my career from when I started until now. They are a big part of what I do so if I win, they win. Everything we do, we do it together. It was important for them to be with me today, on the day I signed, because it’s a milestone for me and for my family in our journey. For them to make the journey and come down means a lot to me.
On People He Knows At Derby…
I know Osazee Aghatise from the Under-21s well and I know Ola Ibrahim, who is in the Under-21s too, through friendship groups and that helps. For me coming down here, I didn’t think too much of anything. I was comfortable being around the lads so that has helped as well. I spoke to Ozzie before I came and he was aware of me coming. When we got here, it was just business.
On His Aims For The Season…
I want to play in the first team as much as possible and get my name out there so people know what I am about. I want to develop under the coaches and with the players to feel comfortable around this environment. As a right back, I am going to give 100% all the time. I am honest and tough on the pitch.
