Derby County Football Club News

• Nickname:The Rams
• Founded:1884
• Manager:Nigel Clough

• Ground:Pride Park
• Capacity:33,597

Mears sets England target

15 Oct 2007 - 14:28:43

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Derby County defender Tyrone Mears believes he can play his way into the England picture before the end of the season.

The 24-year-old right-back claims the rapid progression of Manchester City's Micah Richards from under-21 to full England international during the past six months can act as his inspiration.

"I'm looking at the possibility - why not?" he told the Derby Evening Telegraph.

"My mate, Micah, has gone into the squad and done really well and there's no harm in aiming high.

"I'll be honest, I'm aiming to get in the squad by the end of the season."

Mears joined the Rams on a permanent basis in a £1million deal from West Ham United during the summer.

He spent six months on loan at Pride Park last summer and helped the Rams win promotion to the Premier League via the play-off final in May.