Harvey White is looking forward to showing the Derby County faithful what he can do following his January arrival from Premier League side Tottenham Hotspur.
The 21-year-old midfielder, who made his top-flight debut with Spurs earlier this campaign, joins the Rams on loan for the remainder of the season and is keen to help the club towards their ultimate goal of promotion.
White sat down with RamsTV for his first interview since linking up with Paul Warne’s side to discuss his deadline day move.
On his deadline day…
I woke up this morning and didn’t know much about it other than knowing it was deadline day and hoping something would happen.
I went to the training ground at Tottenham around midday and within about half hour I heard Derby were interested and was traveling up here.
The manager spoke to me on the phone and I went from there – his words were very good and I know Derby are a massive club so as soon as I knew there was interest I couldn’t say no really.
On Paul Warne…
He was wicked. Straight away he came across interested and I almost felt like he was my manager before he even was. I’m raring to go.
On his plan this January…
My plan was to always get out and play some first-team football, it’s what young players want to do. The earlier you get out there the more you experience. Fighting for three points, playing in front of big crowds like the 30,000 at Pride Park. I wanted to get out and play some men’s football and I’m looking forward to doing that here.
On his previous first-team experience with Portsmouth…
I learned that three points is what everyone wants. In 21s you play for three points but it’s nothing like senior football. When I was at Portsmouth there was no fans due to covid so this time I’m really looking forward to playing in front of fans and showing people what I can do.
On his first-team appearances for Tottenham Hotspur…
It was very special. My recent one was my Premier League debut and that’s something I’ve always dreamt of. To finally do that – what a great moment.
On whether he knows anyone within the Derby dressing room…
I’ve played with Louie Sibley at England youth level, he’s a funny guy – that’s definitely him.
It’s quite a young team so I’ve played against a few in the academy too.
On what kind of player he is…
I’m very passionate. I always want to win, I’m a very competitive midfielder that likes to score, assist and stop goals.
On a Derby connection in his personal life…
My girlfriend’s step-mum is originally from Derby so her parents are still up here. Her step nan and grandad, step auntie and uncle, they are all up here and Derby fans.
They don’t know that I’ve signed just yet so I’m waiting to surprise them.
On how excited he is to get started...
Oh I’m very excited. I’m buzzing to play some football, play in front of the fans and hopefully get this club back to the Championship.
