Derby County manager John Eustace praised his squad’s resilience after a frustrating defeat to Hull City ahead of Saturday’s visit of Blackburn Rovers.
Despite the setback, Eustace highlighted the players’ determination, fitness progress, and ability to respond positively to adversity qualities he believes will be key as Derby push through the second half of the Championship season.
Speaking on the Hull defeat, Eustace admitted it was disappointing, but he was encouraged by the team’s response after their previous match against Watford.
“We were on the front foot, created chances to come back twice, showed good character—and unfortunately couldn’t do it a third time,” he said.
While the result was not what Derby wanted, Eustace highlighted that the team showed ambition and determination, something he sees as a key foundation for the remainder of the season.
Eustace stressed the importance of the squad’s reaction after setbacks. “Win, lose, or draw, they’ve always been competitive in the next game and that’s all we ask for,” he said.
He emphasised that it’s not just about individual performances, but how the group as a whole responds to adversity.
“There will still be ups and downs, but it’s always how the group reacts and moves forward that matters,” he added, underlining the focus on maintaining momentum in the long Championship campaign.
The manager also praised forward Sammie Szmodics for his first goal for the club, which came during the Hull match.
“Sammie looked a bit sharper on Tuesday, and I was delighted he could get his first goal for the football club. It was a lovely finish,” Eustace said.
He explained that the striker is still building fitness, with this likely being his first full 90 minutes of the season.
The goal, Eustace hopes, will be the start of more contributions as Szmodics continues to adapt to the team.
Reflecting on the demands of a 46-game season, Eustace acknowledged the resilience required from players.
“We’ve had to adapt a lot throughout the season with different personnel filling in positions they’re maybe not used to. Some players have been playing through a lot of pain, putting in solid performances,” he said.
He underlined that the effort and professionalism displayed by the squad, even when results do not go their way, is a major positive moving forward.
Derby’s home form has also been a talking point, with Eustace keen to maintain consistency at Pride Park.
“There was a win in our previous home game, and it’s something we’ve discussed: wanting to create momentum at home to carry forward.”
“The fans over the last couple of away games have been amazing, and the home support has been just as important,” he said.
Eustace hopes the strong backing from supporters will continue to inspire the team in difficult moments.
Finally, Eustace assessed Saturday’s opponents Blackburn Rovers, praising their competitiveness and quality.
“Fantastic individual players, a great coach, and an excellent football club with passionate fans. We know it’s going to be a really difficult game, but it’s one we’re really looking forward to,” he said.
He emphasised that while Blackburn are formidable, Derby are ready to rise to the challenge and continue their push up the Championship table.
