Joe Ward: Derby winger says 'improving' Rams can reach Bristol Street Motors Trophy final
- Published
Joe Ward joined Derby County from Peterborough in the summer
Joe Ward says Derby County's confidence will be key if they are to reach the Bristol Street Motors Trophy final.
The Rams are in Friday's draw for the last 16 after beating Fleetwood Town 3-0 at Pride Park.
Winger Ward has struggled with injuries this season, but managed to grab an assist on Tuesday night in his first start since August.
"It was great to be back starting. It was a great performance and a good win," he told BBC Radio Derby.
James Collins' double and a second goal in two games for Tyreece John-Jules took Derby a step closer to Wembley - a target Ward believes is achievable.
This season represents the furthest the Rams have gone in the EFL Trophy, and Ward said: "We're a strong team and if we keep winning we'll have confidence to get to the final.
"I'm very confident - we're feeling good as a team. We have got bodies back and we have just got to keep winning, build momentum and take it on and push in the league.
"We're just digging in, giving 100% and hopefully it starts to pay off. We're gelling well and hopefully we will keep improving."
Ward has only made eight appearances for Derby this season, with his last start coming in August's 2-1 defeat by Oxford United in League One.
"It's always frustrating to get little niggles and get injuries but its about being mentally strong, doing the right things and following information from the physios and getting yourself to a good place to get back," he said.
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