‘Brilliant’ – Derby County man hailed by former EFL player ahead of new season

‘Brilliant’ – Derby County man hailed by former EFL player ahead of new season

Derby County boss John Eustace has done a ‘brilliant’ job so far, according to former EFL player Don Goodman.

Derby County turned to the Midlands-born man back in February. DCFC brought him in to replace Paul Warne and he left fellow Championship side Blackburn Rovers to take over at Pride Park.

Eustace, 45, went on to keep the Rams in the second tier in the end. He won six of his 14 matches at the helm which was enough to avoid relegation back down to League One.

Goodman has been impressed and has said, as per Football League World: “There’s no doubt about it, John Eustace did a brilliant job at the end of the last season. And in his final 14 games I think he averaged 1.5 points per game, which would’ve equated to 69 points over a 46-game season, which last season – really unusually – would’ve been enough to get in the play-offs. So I can get the excitement.

“But, I think realism has to kick in. They’re against some powerhouse clubs. I do think the Championship will be stronger next season than it was this previous season.

“And so my thing about Derby County is they should be looking to walk before they can run. I don’t think the hierarchy would expect a play-off spot, but if they can get anywhere near the top half of the table that would go down as a massively successful season, for me, for Derby County.”

Derby County boss John Eustace hailed

Derby County’s decision to turn to Eustace has worked out well for them. DCFC handed him a long-term contract running until June 2028.

As a player, the ex-midfielder had spells with the likes of Coventry City, Stoke City and Watford. He made over 400 appearances before hanging up his boots in 2015 after a final spell with the Rams.

Eustace has since delved into the managerial world. He started out with early stints at Kidderminster Harriers and QPR.

He then landed the Birmingham City job in July 2022 and won 33.3% of games with the Blues before Blackburn Rovers came calling. He then did an impressive job at Ewood Park before switching to his current club.

What now for Derby County?

Derby County have the chance to bring in some more new signings this summer. DCFC also have the opportunity to let some players head out the exit door to free up space and funds.

The Rams published their retained list last month following the end of last term. They announced that the likes of Tom Barkhuizen, Sonny Bradley, Tyrese Fornah and Jeff Hendrick have been released, among others.

Eustace has delved into the market to acquire some of his own type of players. He has snapped up Andi Weimann, Danny Batth and Carlton Morris.