Jewell targets tougher Rams
25 Mar 2008 - 16:13:51
Derby County manager Paul Jewell has vowed to make his squad mentally tougher next season, following a dreadful run of results on their return to the Premier League.
The Rams have picked up just ten points from 31 league games this term, with Jewell drafted in at the end of November to try and improve matters at Pride Park.
However, County have failed to win any of Jewell's 20 games in charge, with their latest defeat a 1-0 loss at Middlesbrough.
Jewell told the Evening Telegraph: "If we'd started the game like we finished it, I think Middlesbrough would have got edgy, the crowd might have turned on them and we might have got something out of the game.
"That's what I'm looking for next season, for players to take responsibility with and without the ball.
"I keep saying I can't wait for this season to finish because I know the players I want to bring in - players with a strong mentality.
"Good footballers who can take the pressure of expecting to win, because I want us to expect to win next season."
Meanwhile, Jewell has hinted that defender Tyrone Mears could yet return before the end of the season, having broken his left leg in January.
"If he gets the green light from the physios and is fit enough, he will be considered for the first team before the season is over," Jewell added.