Derby County winger details how Rams can get the better of Carlisle United

Derby County forward Tom Barkhuizen returned to the starting XI on Tuesday night and stamped his authority on the game with a brilliant goal which helped the Rams to a 2-0 victory against Lincoln in the EFL Trophy.

On Saturday, the Rams face Carlisle United in League One and Barkhuizen will be eager to remain in the team so he can try to make an impact again.

The 30 -year-old returned from injury and has made appearances in the last two matches.

Speaking to Rams TV, he reflected on this return to the squad, he said: “It’s always very frustrating when you’re out injured and especially when it’s an important part of the season. I’ve been playing catch-up but nothing beats playing games and thankfully I’ve been involved in the last two matches.

“A lot of my game revolves around being sharp and making runs in behind so it is important to be ready. Now it’s just about building things up and not picking up any niggles.”

Barkhuizen scored a fantastic goal against Lincoln midweek, something that he said has given him “confidence” going forward.

He made 41 league appearances last season scoring four goals and with five assists and was at times one of the Rams’ strongest looking players.

Looking ahead to the weekend, he said: “It’s always hard to break down teams that sit in so if they do that, it’s about being clever. If you look at our goals the other night, it was clever play for both of them and we will need a little bit more of that.

“We can’t get done by one ball in behind and they go and score, we need to be switched on and see what we can do.

“Watching from the sideline when results aren’t going our way, it makes you even more eager to get back and help your team-mates and from a personal point of view hopefully I can do that.”