Isaac Gordon was given his Derby County debut in the Rams' 4-0 humbling at the hands of Norwich in midweek and John Eustace has explained why he felt the time was right

Derby boss John Eustace admits it may have been unfair to throw Isaac Gordon in for his debut against Norwich - but injuries forced his hand.

The youngster was handed his Rams’ bow in the 4-0 defeat at the hands of Norwich City on Tuesday night. He played 45 minutes before being taken off at half-time.

And while Eustace was thrilled to give one of Derby’s brightest prospects his debut, he has suggested that he wanted it to come in better circumstances.

Speaking ahead of Friday’s clash with Bolton, Eustace said: “I was delighted to give Isaac Gordon his debut on Tuesday night. It’s a great experience for him for sure and he’ll learn from that experience.

“When you lose Ryan Hedges just before the game and Joe Ward just before the previous game, you have to find players to come in and fill the gap.

“Was it fair to play Isaac on Tuesday night in a really difficult environment? Maybe not. But it's great for his development, but we had no one else to play in that position.

“So I was delighted to be able to give him his debut. He's done terrific over pre-season and the Academy going well, it just puts things into perspective from my point of view.”

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Gordon is one of a number of young players who could be set for more opportunities this season, with Derby’s defensive numbers having been decimated through injury.

And Eustace is keen to see more academy prospects step up this season.

He added: “I certainly don't have to play anyone. I think with Isaac, he's done very well since I've been here and he's competed in both pre seasons I’ve been here.

“Unfortunately, he's had injuries and I felt Tuesday night there's an opportunity to give the young boy an opportunity and feel what it's like to play for a fantastic football club, but also when the chips are down and what an opportunity to put him in.

“I thought he started the game a little bit nervously, but he finished the first half very, very well, and then it was the right time to bring him off.

“He's now had that taste. That's something I've said from day one I want to be at the football club and I want to see our own players come through and be developed.

“I was very fortunate to play here with Will Hughes and Jeff Hendrick and them kind of players and there's nothing better than having your own in the building, and hopefully now that's the start for Isaac.

“He can learn and develop, and also it makes the other academy boys at his age want a taste of it as well.”