Derby County chairman Adam Pearson believes the club's fans have lifted their profile around the world.

He said: "There's a siege mentality among the punters. It's almost as if they are saying to the rest of the football world, 'It doesn't matter how much you throw at us - we are Derby County and proud of it.'

"Look at the attendances we have had. Incredible.

"It has surprised me. I always knew the club had a good, solid fanbase. But Derby County's supporters will be looked at a little differently by everyone when the dust settles on this season."