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Fit-again defender Jake Rooney said he is back better and stronger and ready to reclaim his spot in Derby County's team.

The 20-year-old missed all but the first month of Derby's promotion-winning League One campaign after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury last September.

Rooney, who made 18 appearances in the 2022-23 season, had started three league games before being injured.

He made his return to action in Derby's preseason win against non-league Matlock Town last week.

"It's been a long time, so to get some minutes on the grass feels nice," he told ³ÉÈË¿ìÊÖ Radio Derby.

"It's all I have been working toward for months, so to get it is a big relief."

Rooney, who is the cousin of former Derby boss and ex-Manchester United and England striker Wayne, said the months of rehabilitation were "tough" both on and off the pitch.

"It was a dark place at the start, but I'm thankful to get here now," he said.

The centre-back came through as a youth player with Burnley before joining Derby in September 2022. He has gone on to feature 21 times for the Rams in all competitions.

While Rooney said "it's good just to be back" after his lengthy injury lay-off, he is determined to make an impression on his return to Paul Warne's team.

"I back myself in any team, so I 100% think I can get back into the team," he said.

"Without a shadow of a doubt I'm a lot more physical and a lot better now and I can't wait for it."