Sat Aug 03, 2013 6:59 am
Jake Buxton has mixed feelings about John Brayford's Derby County exit
Aug 3, 2013
JAKE Buxton admits to mixed emotions about the departure of team-mate John Brayford.
Brayford joined Premier League newcomers Cardiff City last week in a deal believed to be worth £2m.
Buxton was sad to see his defensive colleague leave the Rams but also pleased that his good friend will get the chance to test himself in the top flight of English football
“I’m disappointed he’s gone, because he’s my mate and I’m disappointed because of what a great player he is,” said Buxton.
“But it was a good amount of money the club received for someone in the final year of his contract.
“And how many times do you get to say that your mate has just got himself a move to the Premier League?
“He wants to test himself at the highest level, so fair play to him.
“We’d have been delighted if he could have done it with us – that was the aim for all of us.
“But the board has already said the money we’ve got for John will be put back into the team, so hopefully, it will makes us stronger in the long run.”
After three impressive seasons at Pride Park, Brayford was entering the final year of his contract at Derby and indicated a desire to play at a higher level.
“Nobody wants to see the club sell its best players but everybody has their price, especially if the player is not prepared to sit down and sign a new contract,” Buxton added.
When Brayford makes his Premier League debut for Cardiff, he will have played in the top five divisions of English football, including the Conference Premier, during his time at Burton Albion, Crewe Alexandra and Derby.
Buxton and Brayford were briefly team-mates at Burton, under current Derby boss Nigel Clough.
“It’s a phenomenal opportunity for John and we wish him all the best,” said Buxton.
“I’m sure he’ll be looking out for our results because he enjoyed his time at Derby County.”
Buxton believes Brayford will not be out of place in the Premier League.
“You look at the right-backs in that division and I can’t see too many better than John Brayford,” said the combative centre-half.
“He was one of the best right-backs in the Championship, he’s consistent and he never really has an injury.
“He’s got his chance with Cardiff and I’m sure he’ll be doing all he can to keep them in the Premier League.”
Derby, meanwhile, are hoping to join Brayford in the top flight and begin their latest Championship campaign on Sunday, at home to Blackburn Rovers (4pm).
Buxton is optimistic about the Rams’ chances going into the season opener.
“Things are progressing well and the performances have been to a high standard in pre-season,” said the former Mansfield Town man.
“Training has been great and so has the preparation of all the staff and people behind the scenes.
“We’re just hoping to turn all of that into a good result against Blackburn.
“Their manager (Gary Bowyer) used to be at the club, so there’s a connection there – and they will want to turn us over.
“We’re expecting a full house and it’s on TV, so hopefully, we can put on a performance for the fans.
“We want to continue our form from last season – and keep making progress. We know what we need to do.”