Savage grateful to be involved

Savage retired from international football with Wales in 2005

Derby County midfielder Robbie Savage says being back in pre-season training is a remarkable personal achievement.

The 34-year-old was left out of the Rams side in the first part of last season, but regained his place once Nigel Clough took charge in January.

Savage told BBC Radio Derby: "I didn't think I'd be playing at all, but since Nigel Clough has been in charge it's an extra special thing.

"My own aspirations are just to get in the team and then stay in there."

Savage joined Derby from Blackburn Rovers for around £1.5m in January 2008, but couldn't stop the Rams being relegated to the Championship.

Paul Jewell then limited his first-team chances and his future at Pride Park looked uncertain.

But the former Welsh international returned to favour under Clough, and starred in the Rams' FA Cup victory over neighbours Nottingham Forest.

The Rams returned to pre-season training last week with midfielder Lee Croft the only new face to join the club so far.

Savage added: "We're looking forward to a season where we can finish first and foremost in the top ten, and hopefully a play-off spot.

"One thing you can promise here is that, if you work hard in training under the manager, you'll get a chance.

"We're all delighted and we're all enjoying pre-season training. Its been very hard but its been great.

"The older you get the harder you have to work to keep up with the young lads."