Russell can’t wait to start ramming in the goals again

Johnny Russell can’t wait to return to full fitness and start knocking in the goals for Derby County.

And he hopes that would be enough to attract the attention of Scotland coach Gordon Strachan.

The former Dundee United striker is currently sidelined after breaking his fibula at the start of last month.

Russell is expected to return to first-team action at some stage this month but he won’t be ready to be included in Strachan’s squad for the two friendly fixtures with the United States and Norway.

But he said: “I’m working hard on my rehabilitation and, hopefully, I can get back playing as quickly as possible.

“It was obviously a blow to pick up the injury when I did, especially with a new manager just coming in at Derby County and after starting the season by scoring a few goals.

“I’m sure every player hopes their club form will help push them towards an international call-up and I’m no different. It’s obviously one of my targets. But first and foremost I need to get fit again and get back into the Derby team.”

Russell was signed by Nigel Clough but now finds himself playing under former England manager Steve McLaren after the Rams axed the man who landed him in a £700,000-move from Dundee United.

Like any player, Russell was disappointed to see his manager go but is now firmly behind helping McLaren take the club forward.

He said: “Things have settled down again and Steve has been brilliant with the lads. He’s a very experienced manager who has worked at the highest level and also been abroad, so it has been great.”

Despite his injury set-back, Russell is loving life in England and can’t wait to get back to scoring goals for Derby.

He said: “I’m really enjoying life at Derby. The facilities here are incredible.

“When I first travelled down and visited the stadium, and then walked out of the tunnel, I was immediately blown away. It really is a massive club. We have a great fan base and everything is geared towards getting back to the Premier League.

“I felt I started the season well by scoring goals and I just want to get back playing and try to pick up where I left off.”

Russell also keeps up to date with what is happening at his former club and he added: “They are doing well at United and I always look out for their results.

“There are a lot of exciting young players coming through, which is great for the football club.”