'Eustace has been a massive influence on me'

Derby County midfielder Liam Thompson said boss John Eustace played a big role in his decision to sign a new contract with the Championship club.

The 23-year-old agreed a new two-year deal to stay at Pride Park this summer.

"It was always going to be my main aim to stay here - especially under the gaffer," Thompson told BBC Radio Derby.

"I can see myself developing and that's a very important thing for me now at this stage of my career. I feel like I need to kick on and take another step in the right direction."

Thompson added that Eustace's background playing in the same position and subsequent advice has helped him progress as a footballer, something he is keen to do more of under the head coach's guidance.

"[Eustace has] been huge. He's obviously played as a midfielder in his career, so I'm always taking information from him on the pitch, and he's always talking to you and helping you.

"There's a different side of it, a different twist on it, and it's good. I can really see myself improving and you can see the difference already.

"The gaffer has been a massive influence on me here. 100%."

Listen to the full interview with Liam Thompson and more on BBC Sounds.