Phillip Cocu happy to give young Rams a chance

New Derby County manager Phillip Cocu says he’s happy to look to the club’s academy stars as he prepares for this first season in the Championship.

The former PSV Eindhoven boss is preparing his side for their opening game in the Championship on Monday night when they make the trip to the John Smith’s Stadium to face a Huddersfield Town side that were relegated from the Premier League last term.

Cocu was brought in to replace the now Chelsea boss Frank Lampard, who guided the Rams to the play-off final, only to lose at Wembley to Aston Villa.

Having worked with young players during his time at PSV, Cocu is fully aware of what academy stars can bring and the manager says he won’t be afraid to use the ones good enough this season.

“There is also a good focus on the academy and working with young, talented players, which is something we are very used to in Holland,” he told Sky Sports.

“We need to build them up and give them individual guidance. It’s about how we educate and develop them and provide the steps to get them into the first team.

“We did it at PSV, but we also had some experienced players as well, which we will try and do here. But I have just arrived and will develop during the season.

“There are also great facilities here, so I am happy I made the decision to sign. It’s a good feeling to be here.” Derby are 3.60 to win, 2.13 to lose and 3.30 to draw at Huddersfield.