INTERVIEW: Ward on ‘Amazing’ Milestone Ahead of Pompey Clash

Joe Ward admitted his delight after signing a one-year contract extension with Derby County ahead of Monday night’s trip to Portsmouth (8pm kick-off).

The Rams’ right-sider signed on the dotted line to keep him at the club until summer 2027.

The deal came ahead of a milestone for Ward, who will reach his 300th EFL club appearance since joining Peterborough United in 2018, if he features for Derby against Pompey.

Ward spoke to RamsTV about committing his future to Derby and looked ahead to Monday’s Sky Bet Championship action at Fratton Park.

On His Contract Extension

I’ve had a great time here, I've enjoyed every minute of it and couldn't think of anywhere better to play my football. It's been a good season so far, and I can't wait for the rest of the season and to spend the rest of my time here.

I wanted to get it sorted as soon as I could and obviously focus on the rest of the season. So, I'm delighted it's done – we can now really kick on the rest of the season.

On Being In-Form This Season

Coming off the back of a long-term injury, and having up and down moments throughout my time here. Doing all the rehab and stuff, it was a tough time.

So, I just wanted to get through that and get as strong as I could and keep on top of everything. I think that's the most important thing. And now I'm in a really good place.

Constantly keeping on top of things, recovering well, doing everything I can to be able to play at this level and stay at this level. And it's starting to show on the pitch. And I'm just pleased to be out there fighting and playing.

On 300 EFL Club Appearances

It's amazing. Obviously, before you make it to football, you just want to play at the highest level and play for as long as you can. So, to get 300 appearances in the EFL is really, really pleasing.

On Ambitions to Stay in the Play-off Mix and Facing Portsmouth On the Road

We'll do everything we can until it's physically not possible. Everyone, we all want the same thing. We're all fighting for the same goal, and we'll keep fighting.

I have good memories of playing at Fratton Park. Hopefully, we can make another one. We'll prepare and be ready to bounce back from the defeat at Millwall - we'll be ready to go there and fight.