Edmundson backs himself to succeed

Athletic defender George Edmundson (right)

Confident Athletic defender George Edmundson holds no fears ahead of tonight's (Tuesday) Carabao Cup first round tie at home against Championship big guns Derby County (7.45pm).

Despite the average age of Athletic's back line being 20-years-old in the opening two League Two fixtures, Edmundson believes that they are all good enough to be in the team.

“We look at it as we are young, but we're good enough to play," said Edmundson.

"We wouldn't be footballers if we didn't think you were good enough. You've got to back yourself.

“We're all just trying to step up to the challenge and hopefully we can show that in the next couple of games.”

Edmundson has been an ever-present in the Athletic team since he was recalled from loan due to defensive injuries last season, and he is loving the opportunity he’s getting week in, week out.

“Obviously I don’t want anyone to get injured but if it's given me a chance to play I hope I can take it," he added.

“The back five is very young, so it's given me, Sam [Graham] and Tom [Hamer] a lot of experience and hopefully we can just keep on improving.”

Frank Lampard's Rams have brought in a number of new signings during the summer as they plot a way back into the Premier League, but Edmundson is relishing the opportunity to test himself against top Championship opposition.

“It'll be a tough game, but these are games you want to play in so I'm looking forward to it," Edmundson added.

“Because it's a cup game they'll probably change it up a bit, but you just prepare like any other game, set pieces, shape on and off the ball so it's the same really.”

Supporters are reminded that they can pay on the turnstile for no extra price increase this evening.

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