WARNE HAILS 'LEGENDARY' RAMS SIDE...

PAUL Warne described his Derby County players as “ledge” as Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s first-half goal sealed an away win at Charlton Athletic.

- Lance Wilkinson

CHARLTON ATH 0 

DERBY COUNTY 1 

The Rams have now won six of their past eight away matches and have moved into the second automatic promotion spot.

Mendez-Laing has 19 goal involvements this season and hit the back of the net for the eighth time.

But he was forced off injured shortly after his 31st-minute matchwinner.

“The lads were really good – I love a 1-0 away win,” said Warne.

“When they had to, they defended well. There were some really good performances and we counter-attacked well.

“We probably could’ve done with a second goal to make it more enjoyable. Birdy (Max Bird) had a couple of chances. Overall I’m buzzing.

“It was disappointing to lose Nat, it’s a big blow for us. We’ll see how he is for next week. A stud has gone through his boot. He could’ve broken his foot, I don’t honestly know.

“He had a bit of blood. I think he should be okay. I don’t think it is too severe.”