Offrande Zanzala says the coaching staff at Derby County have ‘got my back’ as he looks to make an impact during a loan spell at Stevenage.

Boro announced the signing of the 18-year-old last Saturday ahead of his first professional start, and the forward put on a performance then belied his age against Barnet in a goalless draw.

Against the Bees he came up against centre-backs Bondz N’Gala and Bira Dembele and more than held his own against the imposing duo by dragging them into the channels and showing strength and resilience against a powerful defensive pairing.

The teenager will now be hoping to show Stevenage’s fans more of what he has in his locker when the club take on York City this afternoon.

He also hopes to impress the coaching staff back at his parent club.

“I’ve had a couple of chats with the coaching staff at Derby and they’ve got my back, they’re pushing me on,” a smiling Zanzala told the Comet.

“They’ve given me the confidence to say ‘do what you’ve done for the U21’s and it’ll be ok’.”

Stevenage boss Teddy Sheringham spotted the youngster while he was scouting players at games involving Arsenal U21s and West Ham U21s – and on both occasions when they were playing Derby’s academy team Zanzala was the player who stood out.

Zanzala adds: “For the top man to come down and to watch youngsters is good.

“For me to come and play here under his name it’s one of the best feelings you can have really and to get that experience is good for me. It’s a great opportunity and a privilege.”