Derby County defender Richard Keogh has admitted to having ‘itchy feet’ to get back to work.

The Republic of Ireland international, alongside fellow Rams players Jeff Hendrick, Cyrus Christie and Chris Baird, reported back for training at the Training Centre in partnership with the University of Derby this morning after being given time off following his involvement in the UEFA 2016 European Championships.





The rest of Derby’s squad kicked off their preparations for the upcoming 2016/17 campaign at the beginning of July and Keogh says it was a strange feeling to be away from the rest of the group.





The 29-year-old also admitted he has been in touch with his team-mates on a regular basis during the last few weeks to get the lowdown on life under new manager Nigel Pearson.





He told Rams Player HD: “It’s good to be back and amongst the boys again.





“It’s also been good to meet the gaffer for the first time since he joined after the end of last season.





“We had a good football session this morning and we then did some fitness stuff in the afternoon so we’re back at it again.





“Pre-season is a good time and the lads are looking really fit from what I have seen.





“You get itchy feet sitting around at home when you know that the lads are back.





“I’ve been chewing the ears off a few of the lads to find out what it’s like.”





Keogh featured in two of the Republic of Ireland’s four games at the European Championships during June.





He played in their final group game against Italy, with a dramatic late goal from Robbie Brady sending Ireland through to the knockout stages in a 1-0 victory.





Derby’s 2015/16 Player of the Year retained his place at the heart of the defence for the last-16 encounter with host nation France, with the game ending in a 2-1 defeat despite a spirited performance.







Keogh says the experience and memories gained from being involved at a major tournament will stay with him forever.





“There aren’t many better tournaments to play in – I guess reaching the World Cup would top it,” he said.





“Any international player wants to play at a major tournament and I was fortunate enough to play in two massive games.





“If someone said to me a few years ago I would play in the last 16 of the European Championships, I wouldn’t have believed them so I can look back at a fantastic experience with great pride.





“The Italy match stands out for the way we won the game. The pressure was on us as we had to win to go through.





“The celebrations will live with me forever and to share a wonderful experience with the Derby boys, Jeff and Cyrus, made it fantastic.”













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