Savage seeks second chance

Savage: Frozen out by Jewell

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Robbie Savage is hoping to revive his flagging Derby career under caretaker boss Chris Hutchings.

The midfielder joined the Rams in a £1.5million deal 12 months ago, but has struggled to hold down a regular role in the side since then.

He was frozen out by Paul Jewell at the start of the current campaign and was sent out on loan to Brighton in October.

However, having returned to Pride Park, and with Jewell no longer in charge, the 34-year-old is now looking to prove his worth to a sceptical Derby support.

"Everybody deserves a second chance," said Savage.

"I know most of the fans don't like me and that's fine.

"I've heard what they say - that my legs have gone.

Nonsense

"If they came to watch me train they'd know that was nonsense. I want to prove I'm good enough to do a job for their club.

"The new manager says everyone starts with a clean slate and the words were music to my ears."

Savage insists that he never had a bust-up with Jewell, but admits that he found it difficult working under the former Wigan boss.

"It's been the worst time of my career," he added.

"I never had a fall-out with Paul Jewell despite what people think. I had a lot to thank him for.

"We are both strong characters and there was a clash of personalities. But he was the manager and he decided he wasn't going to pick me. I had to respect the fact that he stuck to his guns.

"But it's soul-destroying just coming into training and knowing I would never play for Derby again while he was the manager."