Gary Rowett has handed his backing to Tom Lawrence, with the Derby County boss stressing that he believes the forward has been good for the Rams so far this season.

Speaking to Derby’s official Twitter account (@dcfcofficial), Rowett has praised Lawrence’s effort this season and backed the Welsh forward to be a fantastic player.

Discussing the 24-year-old, Rowett said:

Lawrence arrived at the Pride Park Stadium from Leicester City in the summer, with the forward costing Derby a large transfer fee.

The winger has featured on 27 occasions in the Sky Bet Championship this season, scoring three goals and assisting a further six for the Rams.

That third goal of the season came last weekend, with Lawrence finding the back of the net in Derby’s 3-3 draw with Reading at the Madejski Stadium.

It looks for large parts that Lawrence’s goal would prove to be the winner against Reading, but Derby conceded a late equaliser, dealing them another huge blow in their quest to secure automatic promotion.

Rowett’s side are now fourth, trailing Cardiff City in second by seven points heading into the final 12 fixtures of the season.

The Rams are in action tomorrow afternoon against Fulham, who sit fifth.

The Verdict

Many people expected Lawrence to be the man to replace Tom Ince at Derby this season, but realistically, they were huge boots to fill.

Lawrence has had a steady first season at the Pride Park Stadium, with Rowett’s comments on the winger fair.

However, in the coming weeks, Rowett really needs the likes of Lawrence to step up, as the race for promotion in the Championship gathers pace.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!

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