Derby County haven't had the start to this year's campaign that they originally would have hoped for in the Championship under the management of Phillip Cocu. 

The Rams are currently sat 22nd in the second-tier standings, and will be eager to put together a positive run of results at the earliest of opportunities.

Derby were forced to settle for a point against rivals Nottingham Forest in their most recent fixture, and there were plenty of reasons to be positive after a strong performance at the City Ground.

One player that has struggled for consistent game time since signing for Derby is defender Mike te Wierik, who has had to watch their last four matches from the substitutes bench.

He started Derby's opening three matches of the 2020/21 season, but hasn't been back in the starting XI since being sent-off against Preston North End.

Speaking in a recent interview (quotes sourced from Derbyshire Live), Rams boss Phillip Cocu issued an update on te Wierik, and claimed that he's still adjusting to life in English football.

"It is more about getting used to Championship football, the type of game and how we play the games here.

"I think he has settled in quite well with his team mates, so that is no issue but he still has to find his way in how they play the game here.

"He is the type of character who will work even harder now to get back and fight for his opportunity, and help the team out where needed."

Derby are set to return to action on Wednesday evening, when they host Cardiff City, in what is certain to be a tough test for Cocu's side, as they look to turn around a poor run of form.

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The Verdict: 

He'll be eager to get back into the team as soon as possible.

Te Wierik looked like a solid signing when he first came into the Derby team, but he's clearly going to have to work hard to get back into the starting XI.

Adjusting to the demands of English football is always tough, especially in the Championship which is known for it's fast-pace.

Curtis Davies knows exactly how to perform to a high standard in the second-tier, so te Wierik certainly will face a tough battle to get back into the side.