INTERVIEW: Eustace Speaks Ahead of Birmingham Home Clash

John Eustace says his Derby County side are eager to carry on recent momentum at Pride Park Stadium when they host Birmingham City on Saturday (12.30pm kick-off).

The Rams earned three points on the road with a one-goal win over Portsmouth on Monday night. They have also secured maximum points in their last three outings on home turf, against Swansea City, Portsmouth and most recently Sheffield Wednesday.

Eustace spoke to RamsTV ahead of Saturday’s early kick-off against Birmingham.

On the Victory Over Portsmouth

I thought it was excellent. Very professional. We had to defend our hearts out to get the three points. It's always a very difficult place to go to. Conditions were very tough, especially in the second half.

Defensively, we were good. We could have been better with the ball at times, especially when we won the ball back. But to come away with all three points is a fantastic effort and a great result.

And I thought the fans travelling all the way down there on a Monday night were sensational. They got right behind the boys and helped them through the more difficult times as well. It was certainly a huge group effort from everyone.

On a Clean Sheet for Richard O’Donnell and the News That He Has Signed a New Contract

Richard has come in, and his level of professionalism has been fantastic. He's been a role model, for sure, for the other two goalkeepers. He's got huge experience at all levels.

He trains very, very well every day. That's why he's ready to go when he's called upon. He’s helped Jacob Widell Zetterström and Josh Vickers this season. But I’ve maintained throughout the season that we have a really good goalkeeping unit. They put in high-quality work every day, led by our goalkeeping coach, Paul Clements.

On Several of the Squad Receiving International Call-Ups

I think it shows where the club's going. We want to bring good players to the football club. If they're playing for their country and representing their country, we're doing the right things on and off the pitch for the boys.

We want to create that environment where players are coming in, and they can see that pathway through at different ages. We've had players representing England and Ireland in the Under-21s and through the younger age groups as well. We want to create an environment where players are coming in, and they know they can progress.

On What the Rams Can Expect Against Birmingham City

Birmingham are one of the top teams in the league - they’re coached very well. Obviously, they have a fantastic squad of players, and they've invested very heavily over the last couple of seasons. We know it's going to be a really difficult game, but one we're really looking forward to.

On Rising Confidence When Playing at Home