Derby midfielder Robbie Savage believes that he is back to his best after an all-action display for the Rams against Manchester United.Savage helped to restrict the league leaders to a scrappy 1-0 win at Pride Park on Saturday and gave the type of performance which he has become renowned for over a 14-year professional career.

Critics had suggested that he was finished as a top-flight performer, and Rams boss Paul Jewell unceremoniously dropped him from the first-team in recent weeks after form and fitness troubles.

However, Savage bounced back in style at the weekend and admits that he is pleased to have out a difficult period behind him.

"It's been a nightmare," said the Derby skipper.

"People were saying that my legs had gone, I'm finished at this level and I believed it. It's been dreadful.

"This was the first time I've read horrible things about myself in terms of playing football.

"But I wanted to prove to myself and my family that I can still hack it at this level.

"The gaffer, who was right to take me out of the team, told me to go out and play as I can. And I think that I proved I can still hack it at this level.

"This was the best game I have played all season. I was everywhere and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

"I know we lost the game but I needed to show myself I could do it.

"In the previous seven games I have been rubbish but I am delighted to put in a good display against the best team in the world."

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