Player Of The Year Promises More

Shaun Barker has promised there is more to come from him next season as he returns to training early to get himself in shape after a knee operation at the back end of last season. The Nottingham born defender is the reigning Jack Stamps Trophy holder after being voted The Rams` player of the year by the fans last season but admitted to nerves as he got used to playing in front of a packed Pride Park after being used to slightly smaller crowds whilst at Premiership new boys Blackpool.

Barker told dcfc.co.uk 'I'm getting used to the big crowds now; I was only playing with a home support of around 8,000 at Blackpool and previously Rotherham. I'll admit a first it was a bit nerve wracking, especially with me coming in as the big signing for a bit of money."

A pre-season injury curtailed his preparations for last season after joining The Rams for close to £1million and he struggled when first coming into the side with not being fully fit and then dealing with the pressure of the expectation heaped on his shoulders after being Nigel Clough`s big summer signing. He eventually got a run of games after another spell on the sidelines with injury and he finished the season strongly with his run of form being recognised by the Pride Park faithful.

As Barker looks forwards to the new season he promised he can still improve telling the official site 'I still think the best is still to come; I played just as well in the second half of last season for Blackpool. It does take time to get into your stride at a new club, and I think I can get better and there are things I need to work on."

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.