Breaking News: Derby County’s defensive solidity provides John Eustace with a platform heading into 2025/26
Derby County’s impressive defensive organization has become the cornerstone of their resurgence, offering head coach John Eustace a strong foundation as he prepares his side for the 2025/26 Championship season. After stabilizing the squad and steering them to safety — and even occasional glimpses of playoff contention — Eustace will now look to build on a campaign defined by discipline at the back.
During the 2024/25 season, the Rams emerged as one of the most difficult teams to break down in the league. Their defensive record — among the best outside of the top six — was instrumental in securing crucial points and avoiding prolonged winless runs. It also gave Eustace a reliable platform to implement his long-term vision for the club.
### A Wall at the Back
Much of Derby’s success has come down to the consistency and maturity shown by their backline. Whether playing in a flat four or a more compact back five, the defensive unit remained organized, resilient, and well-drilled — a reflection of the manager’s tactical philosophy.
Veteran centre-back Curtis Nelson and the emerging talent of Eiran Cashin formed a reliable partnership in central defence, combining leadership with athleticism and strong positional awareness. Full-backs added width when needed but rarely neglected their defensive duties, showing a balance that has eluded Derby in recent years.
In goal, Joe Wildsmith continued to be a dependable presence, pulling off crucial saves and organizing his defence with authority. His command of the penalty area and calmness under pressure were vital in tight encounters.
### Eustace’s Tactical Blueprint
John Eustace’s arrival mid-season brought a renewed sense of discipline and clarity to the Derby squad. Known for his defensive structure and team-oriented approach, he wasted no time establishing a system that prioritized compactness without sacrificing attacking potential entirely.
His emphasis on team shape, communication, and defensive transitions has paid off. Even in matches where Derby struggled in attack, they rarely lost their composure at the back — a significant improvement from previous campaigns where defensive lapses often proved costly.
Eustace has also been credited with improving the work rate of his midfield, with players like Max Bird and Conor Hourihane offering consistent protection in front of the defence. This collective effort helped Derby become one of the most frustrating sides to play against.
### Looking Ahead
With the 2025/26 season on the horizon, Eustace will aim to maintain this defensive strength while adding more flair and clinical edge going forward. There are already signs that the club is targeting creative midfielders and forwards in the transfer market, but the manager has made it clear that defensive solidity will remain the team’s identity.
“The foundation is there,” Eustace said in a recent interview. “We’ve got a group of players who understand their roles and are willing to fight for one another. That’s what gives us the platform to build from.”
