Derby County Football Club News

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

• Ground:Pride Park
• Capacity:33,597

Rams youngster signs deal

24 Nov 2009 - 07:29:07

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Derby County have handed young defender Mark O'Brien a timely boost.

O'Brien, who turned 17 on Friday, is recovering from heart surgery.

He went under the knife last month and has since been rewarded with a three-and-a-half year contract at the Pride Park outfit.

The Republic of Ireland youth international was named Academy Player of the Year last term and made his first-team debut in the final game of the Championship season at Watford in May.

Now he wants to show boss Nigel Clough that the faith he has put in him will be justified.

Speaking to reporters, he said: "I wasn't expecting such a lengthy contract.

"Now I have signed it, I know I can ease myself back in after the operation instead of being anxious and trying to rush back in a bid to prove myself. The contract is a boost for my confidence.

"The way the club has shown such faith in me even after the operation is a huge lift and I am determined to repay the club for putting their faith in me."