Derby County boss Billy Davies accepts fans are yet to see the best of striker Robert Earnshaw.

Davies had a chat with Earnshaw on Monday and is confident the player will soon be making a key contribution.

"He is still very much part of our plans this season and beyond," said Davies. "We have had a difficult start to the season. We have played at certain clubs which demand playing in a certain way.

"When you go to Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal, there is a certain way of playing and certain types of players you need.

"Rob is a 'box striker' but you know when you go to these places the chances you get will be few and far between.

"I spoke to him and explained the situation. He has not been brought to this club just to play in the first seven games, he has been brought here to take part in the club's progression over the next number of years.

"He is finding his feet, but I am totally convinced that the lad will very soon be firing on all cylinders and scoring goals.

"Looking at the run of games coming up, I certainly see him starting to come more into frame."