A clear message from Eustace
Derby County held their fan forum last night at Pride Park as supporters questioned head coach John Eustace and CEO Stephen Pearce.
Firstly, it was great to see Eustace in that environment - engaging and funny but absolutely sure of what he needs going forward into next summer and, sat alongside his CEO, his message was clear for all.
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Eustace outlined attackers as the focus this summer, highlighting the lack of goals last season, and confirmed they'd like to add two to three exciting attackers. This falls in line with his plan to play a 4-2-3-1 formation going into next season.
"I'd love to play a back four, some exciting attacking wingers and two good strikers," Eustace said.
That back four may look different on the opening day of the Championship season. Eustace revealed they will be without defenders Curtis Nelson, Ryan Nyambe and Sondre Langas following injuries sustained last season.
Looking at the big picture, as the club continue their huge pitch renovation at Pride Park, they will also be refurbishing the home changing room and all pitches at their training base at Moor Farm.
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It was announced last night that the club have undertaken an academy restructure as they introduce a B team model which will serve as an extension to the first-team environment at the club.
The B team will be led by Keith Briggs and participate in the Central League and Derbyshire Senior Cup, while the under-21s remain the same.
There was no update on the club's search for investment and Pearce reiterated their business plan under David Clowes is going to plan.
The head coach was asked what would make a great season. He suggested the play-offs would be an excellent campaign but went back to a familiar message of patience, highlighting the two-to-three year build both he and the club are on to get them back to the Premier League.
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The night ended on a fun note but one that will carry weight when the new season arrives. A supporter asked for a less stressful campaign - and Pearce echoed that with Eustace. The Rams boss' response was short but sweet - "Only if you get the players".
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