Derby starlet Will Hughes determined to ignore gossip and keep his feet on the ground

Derby County starlet Will Hughes has revealed he is ignoring talk surrounding his future at the Championship club.

The Rams midfielder, 17, has played 32 times this season after breaking through into Nigel Clough’s side, and he is said to be interesting Arsenal, Manchester City Liverpool and even Barcelona.

But the youngster, with the help of his manager, is dismissing any talk of a move away from the Pride Park at this moment in time.

Hughes told talkSPORT: “I’m at the right club with the right gaffer. He keeps my feet on the ground.

“Obviously there is going to be talk but not all of it is true. The gaffer has had words with me and kept my feet on the ground and I think that’s the best way to be.

“Every young lad’s dream is to play at the top level. Hopefully one day I’ll be able to achieve that but when the time is right. I don’t want to rush it. I’m still 17. I’ve got plenty more years ahead of me.”

And Hughes admitted he’s keen to use his time with England’s Under-21s, ahead of their friendly with Sweden, as an opportunity to develop his game alongside some of the Premier League stars currently involved with Stuart Pearce’s squad.

He added: “Playing with the Under-21s is a big step up from playing with the Under-17s for England. I’ve got to learn from the players I’m playing with.

“The likes of Jonjo Shelvey and Wilfired Zaha, they’re great players and hopefully I can learn from them.”