Shaun Barker insists his best is yet to come at Derby

I still don't think I've played to my full ability. I do feel I have more to give

Shaun Barker

Centre-back Shaun Barker says the Derby County supporters are yet to see the best of him.

The 28-year-old, who has signed a new deal which keeps him at Pride Park until 2014, has struggled with injuries since joining the club 18 months ago.

He told BBC Radio Derby: "I still don't think I've played to my full ability. I do feel I have more to give.

"I've been blighted a little bit with injuries since I've been at Derby which has been frustrating."

Barker moved to the Rams from Blackpool for £1m in July 2009 and he says that was the last time he felt he was on top of his game.

"The last year of my contract at Blackpool was probably as good as I've played," he said.

"I had been at the club a few years and was settled and was lucky enough to be fit for three or four seasons non-stop."

Barker played sufficiently well to be named the club's player of the season last term and has been rewarded with a new contract.

And despite suffering from a number of injury setbacks, he has loved his time at Pride Park.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed it," he said. "I have realised what a fantastic club it is and obviously the gaffer must be pleased too.

"I originally signed with a view to a longer-term project and we got to the end of last season I was a little disappointed where we finished but it was still a progression.

"This year the progression has been probably too quick. It has been such a rise and we found ourselves in fourth position.

"But what I can see is a young set of boys who are hungry and I see a good future for the club and the players involved.

"I had to make sure the club is heading in the right direction when I signed and to stay for another few years is a big thing for me because I think we have a good chance of doing well."