Oxford United boss Karl Robinson has tipped reported Derby County target Rob Dickie to have a wonderful career after impressing in the draw with Newcastle United.
Football Insider claim the Rams are keen on signing the U’s central defender.
Dickie has been excellent for Oxford this season. He played a key role in helping the League One club secure a 0-0 draw at Premier League side Newcastle in the FA Cup.
Speaking to the Chronicle Live, Robinson has tipped the youngster to become a top player after showing his ability against Newcastle’s £40 million striker Joelinton.
The two centre-backs [Rob Dickie and Elliott Moore] would have only been 22 or 23, I think. They’ve got a wonderful career in the game. I thought they stood up to some really difficult aerial challenges against a very physical No.9 and coped with that and I hope my players learn.
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Derby are in the market for a new central defender this month.
The Rams are light at the back after the sacking of Richard Keogh. Curtis Davies, 34, and Brighton loanee Matt Clarke are currently the first-choice pairing.
The duo hardly represent a long-term option at Pride Park. Manager Phillip Cocu therefore has identified a new central defender as a top priority going forward.
Dickie, 23, is a ball-playing centre-back. He has averaged an 81.7% pass-accuracy rate in League One while helping Oxford challenge for a playoff position.
The Mirror have drawn comparisons with Dickie and Manchester United’s Harry Maguire. The £80 million defender rose from League One to become a United regular.
Derby should do all they can to bring him to Pride Park in the near future.
Also see: Top-flight boss hints at potential deal for reported Derby and Middlesbrough target
Also see: Derby and Fulham reportedly in talks to sign top-flight player; deal expected