Derby County boss John Eustace says he is very proud of his squad following their penalty-shootout victory at West Bromwich Albion in the Carabao Cup.
Derby County boss John Eustace said he was "really proud" of his squad following their penalty-shootout victory at West Bromwich Albion in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
Joe Ward's free-kick six minutes into stoppage time enforced penalties before goalkeeper Josh Vickers saved two spot-kicks to ensure the Rams' passage into the next round.
"I was really proud of the effort of the group, we're picking a team there that needs minutes in the legs. I think that's very evident," Eustace told BBC Radio Derby.
"Jake Rooney - that's his first start for two years, Wardy [Joe Ward], to get his first 90 minutes over 18 months as well, it's great to get the academy players on – it's really important we keep promoting the academy."
Eustace also revealed his side had prepared for penalties before the match.
"We spoke about it before [the match], [assistant coach] Keith Downing was in charge of penalties and with his experience in different tournaments with England, he certainly helped the group as well.
"Josh [Vickers] was outstanding last season, he never let anyone down.
"We've got Paul Clement who is a top, top coach at the development of goalkeepers, so you can see the improvements since he's come in on all the goalkeepers."
Category: General Sports
