Brayford Praises Squad Improvement

John Brayford has praised the standard of the players brought in by Derby County over the summer after the side recently returned to full training. The Rams have so far brought in eight new faces since the end of a disappointing 2010/11 campaign and the reigning player of the season believes this will only make the side better in terms of quality and competition for places.

Brayford himself had to play in a number of positions last season when injuries and suspensions took effect on an already paper thin squad with the youngster playing in virtually all positions across the back four. He was an ever present over the season, scoring one goal along the way, and was voted the Supporters' Club Player of the Year and picked up the Jack Stamps Trophy for player of the year in a superb first season. Speaking to dcfc.co.uk Brayford said:

'To see us bring players like Tyson and Shackell in, it's a really good thing. They are really good players at this level and to have them pushing for a place in our team will benefit everyone. Then you have the boys who did well on loan with us last season and Maguire and Bryson who come with good reputations from Scotland."

'The competition for a place is going to much stronger this year, and that will bring out the best in every player. As it stands now, there's competition for every place and it will only get stronger.'

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