INTERVIEW: Eustace Praises Squad ‘Character’ Ahead of Blackburn Home Tie

John Eustace was in a positive mood ahead of the clash against his former club following an encouraging showing, despite the 4-2 scoreline at Hull City in midweek.

His Derby County side came just short in an action-packed contest on Humberside on Tuesday night, with Craig Forsyth and Sam Szmodics notching their first goals this season for the club.

Eustace was pleased with the reaction from the Rams following a reversal at Watford that fell below the standard last Saturday and will be looking to cement this reaction with a win when they face Blackburn Rovers at Pride Park Stadium on Saturday (12.30pm kick-off).

The Derby boss sat down with RamsTV ahead of his side’s home clash with Rovers.

On the result at the MKM Stadium

It’s disappointing to lose any game, but the reaction from the Watford game was exactly what I wanted. I thought we were on the front foot; we created a number of chances to come back twice as well. It shows good character.

Unfortunately, we couldn't do it the third time, but overall, we were disappointed; however, there were still many positives to take away from the game.

On the squad’s mentality following two tough away fixtures

I think the team - and the squad - has always had that bouncebackability. Win, lose or draw. They've always been competitive in the next game, and that's all we ask for.

We have reacted well to bad results this season, and I'm sure there'll be some more ups and downs from now until the last game. It’s always about how the group reacts and how we move forward.

On the goal return of Sam Szmodics

I think Sam looked a little bit sharper again at Hull. I was delighted he could get his first goal for the football club. It was a lovely finish. He could have had one or two more for sure.

He’s also getting fitter. He hasn’t played much. I think that might have been his first 90 minutes this season. So, we're getting him up to speed, and naturally, we’re delighted he's been on the score sheet.

On the way in which injuries have impacted the squad

Throughout the season, we’ve used different personnel and had different players filling in. At times, they’ve been in positions where they’ve not been used much. We've also had players playing through a lot of pain.

Some of the squad have been going through the pain barrier as well. When they’ve done so, they’ve put in good, solid performances. Over the course of a 46-game season, you're going to have to do that. I was delighted with the effort. The lads gave a very good account of themselves at Hull.

On regaining momentum with a home victory

It’s just important that we keep looking forward. I thought the fans for the last two away games were absolutely amazing. It’s difficult to travel as well on both a Saturday and Tuesday.

They've been different class this season, and the home fans have been exactly the same. It's important that we try to make Pride Park a fortress. In the last couple of games, the way the fans have really been behind the team, through difficult moments, has been key. It’s certainly helped us push through in the last couple of games.