Richie Barker has expressed his enjoyment in working with Dajaune Brown, praising the young striker’s potential and the “unbelievable” group of experienced forwards who are helping him develop his goal-scoring skills.

Brown, who started in Tuesday’s Carabao Cup victory over Chesterfield, delivered an impressive performance, although he narrowly missed out on scoring. Despite calls from fans for Brown to feature in Derby’s Championship matches, the club is carefully managing his development, considering he is only 18 years old.

After his successful loan spell at Gateshead last season, where he helped win the FA Trophy, several League Two clubs have shown interest in taking Brown on loan. Derby will need to decide on his future soon.

Barker, a former striker himself, has been guiding Brown and acknowledges the support Brown has received from seasoned players like James Collins and Connor Washington. He emphasized that Tuesday’s game was a chance for Brown to enjoy the experience, make the most of his opportunity, and learn from the seasoned professionals around him.

Barker also highlighted that Brown is still young, with time to grow and develop further before regularly featuring in first-team football at this level.