GREAT NEWS: John Eustace has a plan up his sleeve for Derby County’s captain, missing out on Sam Morsy will not be a concern
Derby County manager John Eustace appears unfazed after the club’s pursuit of Sam Morsy came to a halt, as he looks inward for leadership on the pitch. Rather than dwelling on the missed opportunity, Eustace is shifting focus to a new plan — one that places trust in Derby’s existing squad, especially the captaincy role.
The Rams were recently linked with a move for Ipswich Town skipper Sam Morsy, a tenacious midfielder known for his leadership and combative style. His experience in guiding Ipswich to Premier League promotion made him an attractive target for Eustace as he looks to reshape Derby’s spine ahead of the 2025/26 Championship campaign. However, despite initial interest, Derby have stepped back from the deal, with Ipswich unwilling to part ways and Morsy happy to remain with the Tractor Boys.
While some fans may see this as a setback, Eustace’s response suggests otherwise. Sources close to the club indicate that the manager has already drawn up an alternative plan centered around his current squad. At the heart of that plan is Derby’s existing captain — a player Eustace believes can thrive with the right support and tactical setup.
Although Eustace has yet to publicly confirm who will wear the armband this season, all signs point to a renewed vote of confidence in the leadership already present in the dressing room. The manager has reportedly held one-on-one discussions with key senior players, laying out his vision and expectations for the upcoming campaign.
“Leadership isn’t just about one player,” Eustace told reporters during pre-season training. “It’s about a collective responsibility. Of course, you need someone to set the tone, but we have that already. We have leaders in this squad.”
Eustace’s words align with Derby’s recent transfer approach, which has been measured and strategic rather than flashy. The club has focused on signing versatile, hardworking players — the kind who can contribute to a strong team ethic rather than chase headlines. In that context, the decision not to push harder for Morsy makes sense.
Moreover, Eustace is known for getting the best out of his players. During his time at Birmingham City, he showed an ability to galvanize underperforming squads, instill discipline, and promote youth. At Derby, he seems determined to take a similar approach: build from within, strengthen the group dynamic, and create a system where leaders emerge naturally.
Derby’s captain — whoever ultimately takes that mantle — is expected to play a central role in this philosophy. While Morsy’s presence might have added experience, Eustace clearly believes the tools for success are already in place at Pride Park.
As the season approaches, Derby fans will be watching closely to see how Eustace’s leadership strategy unfolds. If it works, missing out on Morsy may be remembered not as a blow, but as a blessing in disguise.
One thing is certain: John Eustace isn’t dwelling on what might have been. Instead, he’s doubling down on what is — and putting his faith in the captain and core already wearing the badge.
