Derby defender Dean Leacock insists this season's failed relegation battle will help him to improve as a player.
But Leacock insists that the experience he has gained from coming up against star-studded Premier League opposition will stand him in good stead for next season.
He told the club's official website: "This season has been a learning curve for me.
"I've played against some of the top players in the world and I've had a few good games, but a few bad games too.
. "But I'm young, I can only improve, and that is what I'm trying to do.
"I've learnt a lot from what players do but obviously next season is going to be a lot different.
. "There is a big difference between the Championship and the Premier League so I will try and take what I've learnt this season into next and hopefully come out on top."
