Derby County could save millions after Australian star’s recent exploits
Derby County could save millions after Australian star's recent exploits
Derby County has a long history of producing excellent left-backs, and one new addition from last summer might be another to add to the collection.
Considering that they were only reassigned to the Championship in April, the Rams’ season opener has been comparatively strong.
They had won both of their league home games, defeating Bristol City and Middlesbrough while maintaining clean sheets; their success was largely attributed to their ability to continue this pattern in 2023–2024.
A number of players have already given Derby’s supporters fantastic displays, especially at Pride Park, although many may have been surprised by Callum Elder’s form.
After his contract at Hull City expired, Elder signed with the Rams as a free agent. However, he had trouble adjusting and Louie Sibley ended up taking Elder’s spot on the club for the majority of the season.
The Australian was forced to settle for cameo appearances and infrequent starts due to manager Paul Warne’s constant juggling between a back four and a back five during the season.
Any chance he had of maintaining his spot on the squad was also destroyed by injuries, as he only made three straight starts in League One twice.
For several years, there has been fierce competition at Derby for the left-back/left wing-back position. Craig Forsyth has typically held this position, although his mobility allowed him to go up to play center-back when necessary.
Elder is an all-around full-back, therefore he couldn’t break into the starting lineup unless he could replace Sibley, who had an incredible season playing in an unusual position.
The 29-year-old had opportunities, but thoughtless errors—such as one against Burton Albion that led to a goal for the Brewers—finally showed Warne who was the better option.
Sibley had to convince his manager that he is the right guy to take over at left-back after his contract was not extended.
Elder was given the chance to make an impression during the preseason, and he succeeded in doing so, securing a spot in the starting lineup for the 2024–25 season’s opening game against Blackburn Rovers.
Although Derby lost that match 4-2 to Rovers, his performance at home has truly captured the attention of fans.
In the team’s first two league games at Pride Park this season, the former Hull player has been almost flawless and has been crucial to the victory.
Elder’s performance thus far has surprised many, but his earlier displays indicate that he is a very capable left-back in the second division.
He is currently among the first names on the teamsheet every week and has so far demonstrated the same form that got him a spot on the 2020–21 League One Team of the Season.
Elder might save the team millions by preventing them from having to pay a new left-back by continuing on this current track, which could keep the position filled for the next few years.
