Jake Buxton has sung the praises of Derby fans after they gave him a standing ovation when he came on a second-half substitute in last weekend’s 1-0 win over bitter rivals Nottingham Forest.
The fan-favourite, who is currently the Rams’ longest serving player, has been pushed out of the team due to the form of Jason Shackell and Richard Keogh, but came on to replace Shackell for his first appearance since January in the East Midlands derby.
In an interview with Rams Player HD, the 31-year-old said: “It was lovely – it was a great feeling to get back on the pitch and put on the jersey.
“The reception that I received from the fans was absolutely fantastic and something that touched me deep down in my heart.
“The opportunity is what I’ve been waiting for and I’ve had to bide my time but I’m glad it came against Forest.
“It’s good to be back in the fold; I’m ready and raring to go for an opportunity should it come my way.”
Buxton has been with the Rams for seven years and has made over 136 appearances for the club, scoring 11 goals.
However this season he has been limited to just two games – the FA Cup third-round win over Hartlepool and the match against Nottingham Forest.
The centre-half acknowledged that he has had to bide to his time to be handed his first league appearance of the campaign but remains committed to helping the Rams in whatever way he can.
He said: “I’ve waited a long time and also worked very hard so to walk out of a football club when times are tough is not what I’m about.
“If I can play one game at the end of the season or if I play every one or even none, I will still be here because I am fully behind this football club.”
Derby currently sit in fifth position in the league on 64 points and will be hoping that they can avoid a repeat of last season’s demise and finish in the top six come May.
