Savage won the FA Youth Cup with Manchester United in 1992

Derby County midfielder Robbie Savage says he hopes he can be an inspiration to young footballers after reaching 600 career appearances.

The 36-year-old scored a penalty in Saturday's milestone game to help Derby to a 3-0 victory over Preston.

He told BBC Radio Derby: "It's a good story for young kids. There have been far better players than me who haven't played 100 games.

"It's great to get 600 through hard work and determination."

He added: "I think it's a good benchmark for any young kid who gets told he's not good enough by one of the biggest clubs in the world."

Savage started his career as a trainee striker at Manchester United in 1992 alongside the likes of David Beckham and Ryan Giggs, but was released by United in 1994 and signed for Crewe Alexandra.

I didn't sulk when he left me out for my own benefit and I have shown I can come back Robbie Savage

He switched to midfield at Gresty Road and helped Crewe to promotion, before a transfer to then Premier League side Leicester City in 1997.

Savage, who has been capped 39 times by Wales, went on to play for Birmingham and Blackburn, before joining Derby in 2008.

He has started the last four games for the Rams but was left out of their trip to Barnsley back in September and the midfielder, who celebrated his 36th birthday on Monday, says he does not expect a guaranteed starting place.

"I have had several chats with the gaffer, I think last year he would've done the same thing but there was not enough players through injuries," Savage said.

"I might miss Tuesday [at Doncaster], I am now 36 and not going to play three games a week.

"I did last week as needs-must, but if the gaffer needs me on Tuesday I am happy to play and be a good influence the lads.

"I didn't sulk when he left me out for my own benefit and I have shown I can come back."

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