Barazite is happy to stay with Rams for rest of season

Saturday 22 November 2008

Nacer Barazite says he would be happy to stay at Derby County for the rest of the season.

The 18-year-old’s loan spell from Arsenal expires at the end of the year but he would jump at the chance of remaining at Pride Park if the clubs agreed to extend the deal.

Barazite’s 13 appearances for the Rams in the Championship include eight starts.

He has been playing on the right of a midfield four and his cross set up Rob Hulse for the decisive goal against Sheffield United to give Derby their first win of the season. He also played in the victories over Queens Park Rangers, Norwich away, Plymouth and Sheffield Wednesday.

“I am really happy at the moment here,” said the Dutch Under-19 international.

“So if I talk to Arsene Wenger about it and Liam Brady, and obviously the Derby manager, and if they agree altogether that it may be better for me to finish the season, then fine because it is a really good experience.”

Barazite says Arsenal are happy with the way things are going for him at Derby and he feels he is learning all the time.

"I have not spoken to Arsene Wenger but I am talking to Arsenal sometimes, to some important people like Liam Brady, and they are happy the way it is going. They are really pleased for me.

"An 18-year-old player who plays every week and starts in the games and has a good impact on the game – it is really good for me.

"Sometimes when I play at Arsenal, I go everywhere. So, for example, if I play right wing or striker, I go everywhere but here at Derby and in the Championship you need to stay in the team shape. I have to stay in the shape so defensively we can cope all together and that is really important.

"People told me about the physical side of the Championship and some people say the Championship does not have players who play football but that is not really the case. There are teams that play football.

"It is a big difference for me from playing in the reserves at Arsenal. Playing for the reserves is good for development but this has been a step forward. I also feel my stamina has improved a lot.

“Playing in the Championship every week is a huge experience for me.”

Barazite returned to the starting line-up against Sheffield Wednesday last Saturday after two appearances as a substitute and the fans appreciated the quality he and Kris Commons produced from the wide areas.

Other stories on this day

• Chance just too good to turn down, says Darren
• Royals gems proof that Ireland well worth a look
• Commons still buzzing!