This week Jason Knight picked up his first cap for the Republic of Ireland as he came on late in their UEFA Nations League game against Finland

The 19-year-old has been in sparkling form for Derby County this season and his workman like attitude makes him a real asset to both the Rams and Ireland with his driving runs, his tough tackling and his composure.

The midfielder has really come of age over his first season with the Derby first team and he has showed a mature head on young shoulders as he has gone from strength to strength. 

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Knight notched six goals last term from an unfamiliar position out wide but with his recent move inside to the middle of the park against Norwich, the youngster really showed what he could do as he was constantly breaking lines and making it difficult for the opposition.

  • “Buzzing”

The call came for Knight while away with the Republic of Ireland U21 squad and he said he was buzzing when it came, and he got his chance to get on the pitch for the senior side. 

I was obviously buzzing and just really excited to meet up with the squad.”

“It was a surreal moment, something I have dreamt about since I was a kid had finally come true. 

“It fills me with immense pride every time I represent my country and now to do that at senior level, I think there is no greater honour.”

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  • ”I just want to keep performing well”

Knight is ready to get back to playing for Derby and is eager to help the team push up the table. 

“I am really looking forward to getting back playing with Derby and helping the team do well and hopefully push up the table.

“I just want to keep performing well, help Derby be as successful as possible and hopefully I will get another call up [for Ireland] if I do keep performing well at Derby.”

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