Setting the Scene At the halfway point of the 2025/26 campaign, Derby County find themselves navigating a season defined by steady progress, injury setbacks, and a growing sense that John Eustace is laying foundations rather than chasing short-term fixes. Expectations at Pride Park were tempered heading into August, but there is enough evidence across the […]
At the halfway point of the 2025/26 campaign, Derby County find themselves navigating a season defined by steady progress, injury setbacks, and a growing sense that John Eustace is laying foundations rather than chasing short-term fixes.
Expectations at Pride Park were tempered heading into August, but there is enough evidence across the first half of the season to suggest the Rams are moving in the right direction.
Derby’s league position at this stage broadly reflects their performances: competitive, resilient, and rarely overawed, though not yet ruthless enough to consistently turn fine margins into maximum points.
While not in the top spots, the Rams have shown they can compete with both promotion-chasing sides and mid-table rivals.
Interestingly, Derby have been significantly stronger on the road than at home.
The Rams have won seven of their 11 away games, drawing three and losing four, which puts them third in the table for away form, with a +5 goal difference thanks to 21 goals scored and 16 conceded.
Home form, by contrast, has been a struggle, with only four wins from 14 matches, alongside five draws and five defeats, leaving Derby with a -3 goal difference, scoring 17 and conceding 20, and ranking 20th in home form.
Despite this, fan support has been electric, particularly on the road, where away allocations have been regularly sold out and supporters have acted as a vocal 12th man, driving performances in difficult environments.
Away performances have provided plenty of reason for optimism, but improvements at Pride Park will be essential if Derby are to climb higher in the table.
Eustace’s tactical imprint is increasingly clear. Derby are well-drilled out of possession, compact between the lines, and committed to winning second balls, rarely leaving themselves exposed in transition.
In possession, the Rams have shown greater patience than earlier in the season, with build-up play emphasising control rather than directness for its own sake.
While this has not always translated into goals, it has given Derby a clearer identity and a platform to build upon.
Formation tweaks to suit different opponents, whether a back three or a traditional four, have demonstrated adaptability, allowing the Rams to secure points against a variety of opposition.
The midfield has been a standout feature of the campaign. Liam Thompson and Bobby Clark, in particular, have impressed with their work rate, discipline, and tactical awareness.
Their ability to shield the back line while contributing to forward play has been crucial, especially during periods when Derby have been without key attacking options.
Thompson’s ball-carrying and distribution provide a link between defence and attack, while Clark’s positioning and tackling offer reassurance that the midfield is a reliable spine.
In matches where the opposition presses intensely, Derby have been able to maintain control, often winning the midfield battle through smart positioning and collective effort, while also contributing offensively to create overloads and support wide players.
Derby’s attacking output has been shaped heavily by injuries, particularly the absence of Carlton Morris since November due to an ankle issue.
His absence has removed a focal point and a reliable source of goals, meaning other players have had to share the attacking burden.
While this has encouraged collective responsibility, it has also highlighted the need for sharper edge in the final third. Too often, promising play has gone unrewarded, requiring multiple chances to score.
Nevertheless, younger players and squad rotation options have stepped up, showing glimpses of creativity and flair.
Wide players, in particular, have contributed dynamically, providing crosses, clever movement, and occasional goals.
Defensively, Derby have been one of the more consistent sides in the division. Organisation, communication, and work ethic have been evident throughout the back line, supported by a disciplined midfield.
Set-pieces, often a weakness in past seasons, have been better defended with clear roles and responsibilities.
Even under sustained pressure, Derby have generally remained composed, limiting clear-cut chances and forcing opponents into low-percentage opportunities.
Centre-back partnerships have also developed well, with players stepping up effectively during injury disruptions, reinforcing squad depth and providing optimism for the future.
Squad depth and rotation have been tested, but have also provided valuable experience for younger players and reinforced Eustace’s trust in the wider group.
Rotation has allowed Derby to manage fitness across the demanding Championship schedule without compromising results, demonstrating careful long-term planning.
Several players have risen to the occasion when called upon, underlining the collective nature of the team’s approach.
Mentality and game management have been key positives. Derby have shown resilience after setbacks, rarely allowing defeats to spiral into poor runs of form.
Comebacks, late goals, and points secured from losing positions have all contributed to a sense that the squad possesses character and determination.
Improved game management has allowed the Rams to protect leads and see out tight contests, reflecting the growing maturity and composure of the team.
While Derby have shown encouraging progress, there are clear areas for improvement.
The team needs greater cutting edge in the final third, converting more chances and diversifying goal-scoring threats to avoid reliance on a single player.
Turning draws into wins, particularly at home, will be crucial, as several points have been dropped from winning positions.
Additionally, increasing goal contributions from wide areas, including wingers and overlapping full-backs, will help relieve pressure on central attacking players and provide more varied attacking options.
Addressing these issues could significantly impact Derby’s points return and overall league performance.
The January transfer window presents an opportunity rather than a necessity. Any additions are likely to be targeted, focusing on enhancing attacking options rather than wholesale changes.
Fans will be watching closely to see if the club can bring in players who add creativity, goal-scoring threat, or squad depth.
With key players expected to return from injury and a clearer tactical identity now in place, Derby will view the second half of the campaign as a chance to build momentum and push up the table.
From a supporter’s perspective, the first half of the season has been a mix of hope, patience, and occasional frustration. Fans can take pride in the team’s fighting spirit, tactical growth, and defensive organisation.
Watching the team dominate on the road and seeing the energy in packed away sections has provided electric moments, highlighting the strong connection between the squad and its supporters.
At the same time, awareness of areas that need improvement, particularly goal-scoring consistency and home form, keeps expectations realistic.
Overall, Derby County’s 2025/26 season so far can be described as quietly encouraging. Stability, structure, and growing belief in the manager’s methods suggest the Rams are on a sustainable path.
If they can sharpen their attack, maintain defensive consistency, and convert more draws into wins, the second half of the season could prove even more rewarding.
For fans, there is plenty to engage with, from tactical development and player progress to the thrilling atmosphere created on the road, providing genuine optimism for the months ahead.
