Former Derby County midfielder lands new contract and says he’s learned ‘valuable lessons’
A former Derby County midfielder has officially put pen to paper on a new contract after a period of career reflection and growth, declaring that he’s learned “valuable lessons” both on and off the pitch since his departure from Pride Park.
The midfielder, whose time with Derby saw flashes of promise mixed with challenging spells, is now charting a new course with his latest club — and he’s doing so with a renewed mindset and a deeper understanding of the professional game.
Speaking after signing his new deal, the player expressed gratitude for the journey so far, specifically highlighting his time with Derby as a defining chapter in his development.
“My experience at Derby taught me a lot — about football, yes, but also about professionalism, resilience, and staying grounded,” he said. “I’ve had time to reflect on what I did well, what I needed to improve, and now I feel like I’m in a much better place mentally and physically.”
The player, who left Derby amid squad restructuring and budget shifts, initially struggled to find his footing after departing the Rams. But a short-term opportunity with his new club — whose identity is expected to be formally revealed in an upcoming announcement — allowed him to prove his quality again. Consistent performances, leadership in the dressing room, and a strong work ethic reportedly played a major role in earning him the fresh contract offer.
“He’s been a quiet leader for us,” said his current manager. “Someone who understands the game at a deeper level now. You can tell he’s come through the ups and downs — and it’s made him stronger.”
During his time at Derby, the midfielder was viewed as a player with technical ability and potential, but injuries and managerial changes impacted his consistency and growth. However, teammates and staff often praised his attitude and work behind the scenes, which seems to have served him well in his career revival.
He admitted that being away from the Championship spotlight was humbling — but ultimately necessary.
“I’ve been through moments where I questioned a lot,” he said. “But every club, every coach, every setback taught me something. Those lessons have shaped me. Signing this new contract means more because of what I’ve been through to get here.”
With his future secured for the immediate term, the midfielder is setting his sights on contributing even more this season — not just in performances, but also in guiding younger players in the squad who might be experiencing the same pressures he once felt.
“This is just the beginning of the next phase,” he said. “I’m proud of the journey so far, and I’m more motivated than ever to give back and help the team succeed.”
