Exclusive: Ole on Rooney, Cocu’s Derby & injuries

It seems like Derby are still finding their way a bit under Phillip Cocu…
“Well it takes time for any manager in a new country and a new club. Last year, they had a lot of loan players from Chelsea and other clubs, with Frank [Lampard], so it takes time. But I think they’re looking very good.”

You played against Phillip in the Treble season, what do you remember about him as a player?
“He was a difficult player to play against. He played for Barcelona and I played in the 3-3 at home [in 1999] and, technically and tactically, he was very, very good. Great left foot, correct me if I’m wrong, and he played at centre-back but used to be a midfielder. I thought maybe I’ll have a chance against him, but he was very clever in his positioning.”

He was the classic Barcelona defender wasn’t he and you can see the way he wants his team to play…
“Yes I’m sure he’s influenced by Barcelona and the Dutch philosophy so we’re going to have to work hard to get the ball. That’s the one thing I know we’ll get from our players though, I know they’ll work hard and run around and chase after things because it’s a place in the quarters we’re playing for and we’re looking towards the business end of the FA Cup.”