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.
(Photo by James Baylis – AMA/Getty Images).
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.
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.
(Photo by Andrew Kearns – CameraSport/ via Getty Images).
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