Despite a rough ride throughout the majority of 2024/25, one thing that Derby County could rely on was their defensive strength.
The Rams’ defence changed greatly over the course of the campaign, with Curtis Nelson and Eiran Cashin partnering one another at the start of the season before a three centre-back system helped secure safety, as Sondre Langas, Nat Phillips and Matt Clarke saw out the year.
Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images
Photo by Athena Pictures/Getty Images
The turnaround in performances under John Eustace was clear to see, and while Paul Warne had never been beaten by a great margin, the East Midlands outfit looked more stable at the back from February onwards.
However, Eustace is not resting on his laurels, and with both Craig Dawson and Danny Batth linked with moves to Derby this summer already, it could spell the end of one of those already at the club.
Curtis Nelson suffered a knee injury at Derby County
After winning the Rams’ Player of the Year in 2023/24, hopes were high that Nelson was going to continue his form into the Championship and the early signs were more than positive.
Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images
Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images
Despite shipping four goals to Eustace’s Blackburn on the opening night of the season, the centre-back did find the back of the net and in the weeks following he looked incredibly solid next to Cashin, who made a £9m move to Brighton in January, as per BBC Sport.
However, the 32-year-old’s campaign was cut short as he suffered an ACL injury in a 2-0 defeat to Watford in January. Former Derby head coach Paul Warne said (via: BBC Sport): “He has severe knee damage so he’ll be out for a long period of time. His season is over.
“Our sympathies are with him. He’s heartbroken. He’s a real warrior, so it’s really sad for the dressing room and for all of us.”
John Eustace seems to be looking at replacements for Curtis Nelson
A Nat Phillips return this summer would be perfect for Derby, but cover will be needed and therefore it is not a surprise to see Eustace looking to use the free agent market to fill his defence.
However, with Batth and Dawson both in their mid-30s, it is clear to see that experience is being targeted and this does lead to questions about whether Nelson will be surplus to requirements once he comes back from injury.
Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
Photo by Rene Nijhuis/MB Media/Getty Images
It is going to take time to get the defender back to full fitness, and the Rams must ensure that they are not caught short at the back, even with Clarke signing a new deal.
Yet, by the time January comes around, and Nelson’s contract enters its final six months, it may be the best for all parties to let the ex-Plymouth Argyle man go as to allow him minutes on the pitch. But this can only be done if Derby have ample cover.