Derby stormed to a superb 3-2 victory over league leaders Bournemouth at the weekend - and Richard Stearman has now taken to Twitter to reveal his pride at playing for the Rams, whilst also praising the work of Liam Thompson on his first game.

The defender has featured seven times for the club so far this campaign and although he only played for a total of seven minutes in the game against the Cherries on Sunday, he has taken to his social media page to heap praise on his side.

The 34-year-old only joined the Rams over the summer but is one of the most experienced heads in the squad and is already somewhat of a leader to the rest of the team - so this rallying cry on Twitter is sure to get his teammates spirits high.

Thompson has been with the Rams as part of their youth setup for several years now and having plied his trade in the academy, he was given the chance to shine on the big stage at the weekend.

Making his very first appearance for the club, he shone and didn't look out of place at the back despite coming up against some tough opposition.

He's done his case plenty of favours in terms of keeping his position in the side going forward and despite his age - he's just 19-years-old - he could become an important player for Wayne Rooney for the remainder of the campaign now that he has burst onto the scene at Pride Park.

The Verdict

Richard Stearman for starters is a reliable and calm head to have at the back for Derby. He is a true leader and his presence in the side can only benefit the younger players in the squad.

As for Liam Thompson, he is one more name that has come through the ranks and can emerge as an important player for them going forward. Even if he doesn't get gametime now, if the Rams end up in League One he could be an important player to have.