COREY Blackett-Taylor acknowledged Charlton Athletic’s role in helping to get his career back on track after he joined Derby County on Monday.
Blackett-Taylor, 26, signed on initial loan deal for a substantial fee. The move will become permanent in the summer.
Birmingham-born Blackett-Taylor started his career with Aston Villa where he made his professional debut in 2016-17 before moving to Tranmere Rovers in 2019.
Blackett-Taylor spent two seasons at Prenton Park before leaving when his contract expired.
He was picked up by the Addicks, for whom he played 97 times, scoring 20 goals, nine of them in 28 appearances this season.
“They helped me get everything going,” Blackett-Taylor said on Rams TV, reflecting on his time at The Valley. “I went in initially on a trial and then signed a six-month deal. Every season I kind of kicked on to the point where I am now.
“I feel that I was having a very good season…but I feel like this is the right time to go and explore this challenge. I’m ready for it.”
Blackett-Taylor revealed conversations with Derby boss Paul Warne were key to his decision to move to Pride Park.
He said: “I spoke to the manager a few times, there was interest in the summer but I’m happy to be here now, finally get it done and get started.
“I believe in the project for the next 12 to 18 months and I feel like this will be the place for me to not only have a chance to play in a higher league but to develop as a player as well.
“I like to go into clubs where I have a clear understanding of what the manager wants from me and how he sees me fitting into the team. He was essential in that.
“I feel like there is a certain belief that he has in me. I thrive when I feel like I’ve got the backing of the manager, I feel like I can play free and he’s got my trust and I can keep going and getting better. As a player that’s the kind of guy that I like to play for.”
Derby are third in League One, three points off table-toppers Portsmouth with a game in hand.
Blackett-Taylor added: “It’s a big factor why I came, I looked at the league position and I definitely believe that I can add a lot to the team and help them get into the higher league. That was a big part of my decision-making to come.”
