First-choice goalkeepers often dominate the headlines. But over a long and physically demanding Championship season, a strong and dependable backup can be just as crucial.
For Derby County, that player is Josh Vickers. The 30-year-old has quietly established himself as a reliable, experienced presence who can step in and deliver when the team needs him most.
Here are five reasons why he could be considered one of the Championship’s best backup goalkeepers.
Vickers has repeatedly demonstrated that he can perform under pressure. During the 2024/25 season, he earned Derby’s Save of the Season with a remarkable close-range stop against West Bromwich Albion.
That save was more than just a highlight; it helped the Rams secure a vital 3-1 win during the final stages of the season, a result that played a crucial role in keeping them in the Championship.
Earlier this season, Vickers also impressed in the Carabao Cup, producing decisive saves in a penalty shootout against the same opposition, ensuring Derby advanced in the competition.
These performances illustrate that he is more than capable of rising to the occasion in high-stakes matches.
Vickers’ career path has given him a broad and varied set of experiences. He came through the Arsenal academy, before moving on to clubs including Swansea City, Barnet, Lincoln City, and Rotherham United.
These experiences allowed him to develop resilience, adaptability, and a strong understanding of the game at different levels of competition.
Joining Derby in 2023, he quickly adapted to the demands of the Championship and has shown that his experience translates to reliability in England’s second tier.
One of the most important qualities for a backup goalkeeper is consistency. Vickers rarely lets the team down and gives the squad confidence that the goal is in safe hands, even when he has been out of the team for extended periods.
Whether stepping in due to injury, suspension, or tactical rotation, Vickers provides a level of stability that is invaluable in a league as unpredictable as the Championship.
Vickers’ influence extends beyond matchday. His professionalism in training and readiness to step up when required have a positive effect on the entire squad.
He sets high standards for preparation, attitude, and focus, pushing not only himself but also the first-choice goalkeeper to maintain sharpness.
This makes him an integral part of John Eustace’s squad, contributing to both performance and morale.
Perhaps the strongest endorsement of Vickers’ quality is the trust placed in him by managers, teammates, and fans alike.
In a league where matches can be won or lost on fine margins, knowing that a competent and reliable backup is ready to step in provides reassurance and stability.
His new contract extension at Derby reflects the club’s confidence in him as a player who can perform when needed, whether in crucial league matches or cup competitions.
While backup goalkeepers often go unnoticed, Josh Vickers has demonstrated that the role requires skill, composure, and experience.
From his key saves at decisive moments to his consistency and influence within the squad, Vickers embodies what it means to be a top-quality deputy.
His reliability, professionalism, and proven performances make him one of the Championship’s most trusted and effective backup goalkeepers.
Derby County are fortunate to have a player of his calibre ready to rise to the occasion whenever called upon.
