Derby County midfielder George Thorne has backed the team to gain promotion to the Premier League this season.
The Rams currently sit one point clear at the top of the Championship table thanks to four wins in their last six matches.
Summer signing Thorne, who is due to return from a serious knee injury in the New Year, believes that Derby have what it takes to finish high up the standings and get themselves back in the top flight.
"I am impressed with how the side has reacted to last season's disappointment but I am not surprised, to be honest," he told the club's official website.
"I was fully aware of the ability of the squad, which is why I chose to come here during the summer. I believed we would be there or thereabouts this season and that feeling hasn't changed at all, the mentality and quality is there for all to see."
Derby continue their Championship campaign on Saturday when they make the trip to promotion rivals Watford.
Jack Prescott
