Pearson to fight for Rams role

Midfielder looking to get back to full fitness after groin injury

Last updated: 5th September 2008

Stephen Pearson

Pearson: Fighting for place

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Stephen Pearson is determined to fight for his place at Derby County as he works his way back to fitness.

The midfielder finished last season on loan at Stoke City and was tipped to leave Pride Park over the summer.

He turned down a loan move to Birmingham City, after a permanent deal fell through, while Nottingham Forest were also linked with a bid.

Pearson has not played a first-team game this term due to a groin injury, but the Scot is eager to help Paul Jewell's struggling Rams.

Happy to stay

"Nobody likes being left out of the team. It is very disappointing, but the boys are working so hard," Pearson told the Derby Evening Telegraph.

"I didn't want to go on loan. I wanted my future sorting one way or another.

"It wasn't right for me at the time and so I am happy to stay here at Derby and work hard and do the best I can to get back in the side.

"I have only just got my fitness back so, hopefully, I can get a few more games and get my match fitness up and fight for my place."