3 players who really stood out for Derby County in their 5-0 win over Torquay | OneFootball

Derby County ran out 5-0 winners in their FA Cup first round replay against Torquay on Tuesday.

It was very much an unwanted game for manager Paul Warne who would have liked a free week in the build-up to a huge game on Friday against Portsmouth.

That wasn’t the case but it did allow the former Rotherham United manager a chance to get minutes into the legs of some of his fringe players.

It seemed to work a trick as Derby found themselves 3-0 up by half-time after a dominating performance allowed them to take their foot off the gas in the second half before going on to score another two goals.

There were several impressive performances from the players and here, we look at three in particular who impressed us.

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Jake Rooney

The former Burnley trainee got the nod the start at right back and he put in an assured display against a physical side.

The centre-back was in an unfamiliar position, but he looked comfortable and offered plenty of support in possession, showcasing his composure.

After a positive game at the weekend against MK Dons, Rooney will certainly have given Warne a headache come his team selection for Friday.

The 19-year-old won nine of his headers while completing 78% of his passes showcasing a mature display from the promising youngster.

Liam Thompson

Thompson has struggled for game time this season and has looked short of confidence in a more physical environment.

That being said, his box-to-box display will be pleased Warne as the youngster looks to get back to the form that saw him become a regular for the Rams last season.

He took positions on the right-hand side several times, allowing Derby to expand the pitch and open Torquay up.

In possession, Thompson was tidy and composed, completing 82% of his passes whilst creating one big chance of Will Osula.

Not only that, but he scored his first career goal for Derby which will be sure to boost his confidence.

Will Osula

Osula has looked raw at times, and brilliant in others and this was another superb display in front goal.

His finishing looked crisp as evidenced by his first goal of the night – a first-time strike from the edge of the area.

He’s a player like Rooney and Thompson that is growing in confidence in an incredibly difficult environment which will no doubt please Warne as he hunts for more competition for places.

Not only that, but he wants to run at defenders which is incredibly refreshing for supporters as he looks to get fans off seats and exciting during games.