Speaking to the Derby Telegraph, David Nugent has piled praise on Matej Vydra, insisting that the forward is much more effective when in the number 10 role.  

Vydra arrived at the Pride Park Stadium ahead of the 2016/17 campaign, but has taken time to settle with Derby County, producing some of his best form this season under Gary Rowett.

The 25-year-old has seven goals and two assists across all competitions, providing the creative spark between midfield and attack for Derby, as Rowett’s side go in search of the Sky Bet Championship’s play-offs.

Nugent, who has often been the beneficiary of Vydra’s creativity, has admitted that his teammate thrives in the number 10 role, and is at his best when Rowett selects him in the role.

The striker said: “I think he's a number 10 - while me, Sam (Winnall) and Chrissy (Martin) are all number nines.

"Vyds loves playing number 10. That's his best position. He says he wants to play there and when he does, he's so effective.

"He's so powerful and I don't think Vyds knows how good he could be, until he shows it on the pitch.”

Vydra has missed Derby’s last two Championship fixtures, with Rowett holding him back against Leeds United and Reading.

However, after the international break, Vydra is understood to be pushing for a first-team return for tonight’s clash with Fulham at Craven Cottage.

The Rams enter the weekend’s fixtures in seventh, just a single point outside the play-offs, looking to take advantage of any opportunity to move back into the top-six.

The Verdict

Vydra is clearly highly thought of at Pride Park, and the general feel is that Derby are far better with him in the number 10 role.

Rowett’s side have made a steady start to the season, and maintaining an excellent run of form between now and Christmas will be key to any chance of promotion.

Vydra could be the player that sparks a serious promotion push for Derby.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!

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