“Disaster Incoming? Eustace Under Fire as Pundit Predicts Trouble for Derby County”

Derby County Facing Crucial Run After Tough Championship Start, Warns Don Goodman

Derby County are heading into a critical stretch of fixtures following a winless start to their Championship campaign.

That’s the view of former striker and current pundit Don Goodman, who has raised concerns about the Rams’ defensive struggles this season.

Goodman, who previously played for clubs including West Brom, Sunderland, and Wolves, believes Derby’s leaky defence — which has already conceded a league-high 11 goals in just four games — could spell trouble unless addressed quickly by manager John Eustace.

Speaking to Coin Poker, Goodman acknowledged that Derby have had a challenging start, facing Stoke City, Bristol City, Coventry City, and Ipswich Town — all tough opponents.

He also pointed out that the team has been hit hard by injuries, which, along with a wave of new signings, has made it difficult to find consistency.

“It’s been a tough run of fixtures, and when you add in the injury list, it’s understandable why they’ve struggled,” said Goodman. “Against Ipswich, six of the new signings started and two more came off the bench. They’ll be devastated to have conceded so late in injury time.”

Goodman expects some injured players to return after the international break, which could help Eustace stabilize the team. However, he stressed the urgent need to tighten up defensively.

“If Derby don’t stop conceding goals at this rate, they’re heading for trouble,” he warned. “John Eustace’s teams are usually well-organized and tough to break down, so it’s surprising to see them so vulnerable at the back.”

While Derby struggled to score last season — managing just 48 goals, with only three teams netting fewer — Goodman noted the club has made clear efforts to bolster their attack.

New signings such as Carlton Morris, Rhian Brewster, Ben Brereton Diaz, Andi Weimann, and the injured Patrick Agyemang have added firepower.

“There’s definitely more of a goal threat this year,” Goodman admitted. “But the defensive issues are undoing any progress.”

Looking ahead, Goodman highlighted Derby’s upcoming matches against West Bromwich Albion, Preston North End, Wrexham, and Charlton Athletic as a defining period in their season.

“West Brom away will be tough, but the next three games are against two promoted teams and a mid-table side,” he said. “Derby need to start picking up points in this stretch — otherwise, they could find themselves in real difficulty.”