Derby County find themselves in a testing period, with a string of injuries and setbacks challenging the squad’s rhythm ahead of key fixtures.
As the season heads into its final stages, the Rams are focused on recovery, using the upcoming international break to regroup and strengthen the team’s readiness for the challenges ahead.
The Australian international has been a regular presence in Derby’s defence throughout the 2025/26 campaign, but a knee problem that has troubled him in recent weeks has now required surgical intervention.
Elder is expected to miss around five to six weeks, although the club hopes he will return shortly after the upcoming international break.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference ahead of Derby’s clash with Sheffield Wednesday, Eustace explained that the decision was made to address the knee issue now while the defender was already dealing with another knock.
“Callum’s had surgery on his knee, so he’s going to be, unfortunately, out for the next five to six weeks,” Eustace said.
“It’s a bit of a blow, but it’s important that we get him back before the end of the season. I think he will be with the group again just after the international break.”
The 31-year-old left-back has been a key figure for Derby this season, making 30 appearances across all competitions while contributing one goal and five assists from defence.
While Elder’s absence represents a setback, Eustace delivered more encouraging news regarding two other members of the squad.
Norwegian defender Sondre Langås, who has not played since Derby’s 1–1 draw with West Bromwich Albion in January, is making steady progress in his rehabilitation and has already returned to light work outdoors.
“Sondre is progressing really well,” Eustace explained.
“He’s been on the grass with the physios, training outside now. So, fingers crossed, he’ll be with us just after the international break.”
Forward Lars‑Jørgen Salvesen has also begun his recovery process after missing Derby’s last three fixtures.
“Lars was also on the grass with the physios today, which is great,” Eustace said.
“That’s a real positive step for him. Hopefully, in the next two weeks, he’ll join back in with the first-team training group.”
Elsewhere, Eustace revealed that experienced defender Danny Batth is nearing a return from a calf strain and could rejoin training with the squad next week.
Midfielder Liam Thompson has experienced a small delay in his recovery, however, after suffering what Eustace described as a “slight setback” with a calf issue.
Despite the complication, the 23-year-old is expected to resume outdoor rehabilitation work with the club’s medical staff at the start of next week.
“He’ll be back on the grass with the physios from Monday,” Eustace explained, adding that Thompson is likely to require another 10 days to two weeks before returning to full training.
Eustace also spoke about the progress of Max Johnston, who has endured a frustrating period on the sidelines.
The Scottish international has not featured since Derby’s victory over Queens Park Rangers at the end of October and has suffered several setbacks during his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Despite the lengthy absence, Eustace praised the defender’s mentality and the support he has received from teammates during his rehabilitation.
“Max has been out for a little bit of time now,” the Derby boss said.
“He’s had a couple of setbacks on the way but he’s doing really well. We’ve got a great dressing room, and the boys are really looking after him and making sure he’s getting through it.”
“This is part of his journey; it’s part of any footballer’s life. You’re going to get injuries, and it’s how you bounce back from it. Max is a really solid boy, and he’ll be coming back from this injury much stronger than before.”
Goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterström remains unavailable as he continues to deal with complications from a virus he contracted at the end of January.
The illness has prevented the Swedish shot-stopper from returning to training, and Eustace admitted the club is still searching for answers as to why his recovery has taken longer than expected.
“Jacob’s still struggling with his virus, unfortunately. He’s not fit enough to take part in training,” Eustace said.”
“We want to get him back on the pitch, of course, and we’ve got to get to the bottom of why it’s keeping him off the pitch.”
“We’re working hard, we’re getting tests, but there’s just something not right at the moment. He is feeling better, which is great, but he’s just not at the level to perform on a Saturday and train every day. We’ve just got to be a bit patient with him.”
With several players progressing through rehabilitation and others still working toward full fitness, Derby will hope the international break provides a valuable opportunity for the squad to recover ahead of the run-in to the end of the season.
While Derby continue to face a challenging period with injuries and setbacks, there are encouraging signs that several key players are on the path back to full fitness.
With Elder sidelined for the next five to six weeks, the Rams will lean on their squad depth, but the progress of Langås, Salvesen, Batth, and Johnston offers hope for a stronger second half of the season.
Eustace and his medical team will aim to use the upcoming international break strategically, allowing the squad to recuperate and build momentum as Derby look to navigate the final stages of the campaign with their key players gradually returning.
