Ince impressed by new boss Rowett ahead of Forest clash

Rowett joined the club on Tuesday after the sacking of Steve McClaren and took his first training session with the Rams players yesterday.

And Ince is now raring to go under the new boss as Derby prepare to host arch rivals Nottingham Forest on Saturday.

He said: “It was a really good first session. He put across ideas and introduced his staff and told us what he expects from us and also what he thinks he can bring to us as players to help our game and win football matches.

“The lads enjoyed it. You could see there was a real enthusiasm about the place and although it was intense as well, it was good for all of us.”

“He’s done a fantastic job at the previous clubs he’s been at and seems very keen on the players being happy and getting everything they need. His persona and the way he carries himself shows he wants to win games and be the best for himself as well as getting the best out of his players.

“He’s keen to see us progress. He’s been here before so knows the club well and what it’s like to play for Derby and at Pride Park, and he still lives locally too so there’s a big connection all round which is important.”

With such a big game on the horizon, a change in manager could have disrupted preparations, but with Forest also having appointed a new boss this week in the shape of Mark Warburton, Ince is pleased the players have had some time to prepare properly under Rowett’s tutelage.

He added: “It’s never nice for players when managers lose their jobs but the owner made his decision, acted quickly on it and obviously wanted to get someone in place quickly who had different ideas.

“It’s good to have had time to meet Gary properly and train with him ahead of the Forest game so that we know how he wants us to play. As players we have to take responsibility now and work hard to get a win on Saturday.”