Derby County manager John Eustace has confirmed that the club has formally raised concerns with the Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) regarding the treatment of striker Patrick Agyemang.
The Rams have submitted reports and video footage documenting fouls against the forward that went unpunished, highlighting a growing frustration from the coaching staff about the lack of protection for their key player.
Eustace has repeatedly spoken about the issue over the past month, stressing the physical challenges faced by Agyemang.
The problem became particularly evident during Derby’s recent 4-2 defeat to Hull City, when the striker was dragged to the ground in the first half without any sanction from the officials.
An incident that sparked visible frustration on the Rams’ bench and served as a stark example of the physical burden the 6’5” forward carries each game.
“When you’re 6’4, 6’5, and you’re a physical player, people expect you to be giving it out a lot more than what you really are,” Eustace said.
“You’ve taken a large brunt of physicality before people even see you receiving the ball.”
The manager stressed that Agyemang often faces challenges that go unnoticed but can influence the flow of the game and affect Derby’s attacking rhythm.
Eustace also highlighted the collective responsibility of officials to manage the game effectively.
“It’s just about understanding the game, probably a little bit more, and just taking actions from that,” he said.
“I think with the VAR and all that kind of stuff in the Premier League, they certainly help on that side.”
“But the fourth officials and assistants can certainly help as well if they see anything early on, so it’s got to be a group effort for sure.”
Despite his concerns, Eustace is quick to acknowledge the difficulty of officiating at a high level.
“I understand the job’s a very difficult one for the referee, which is very evident, but it’s about helping each other and trying to get the best result possible,” he said.
By sending detailed footage and reports to the PGMOL, Derby hope to encourage greater awareness and action from match officials.
The Rams are eager to ensure that players like Agyemang receive the protection they need, that the integrity of matches is upheld, and that referees have the support to make fair, consistent decisions in the heat of the moment.
