Derby County claimed a fourth-straight win in League One tonight, beating Port Vale 1-0.
It was a tough game for Paul Warne and his Derby County side, but a second half goal from substitute Tyreece John-Jules earned the Rams all three points.
The 22-year-old on loan from Arsenal recently returned to action after spending several weeks sidelined with a thigh injury, with his appearance tonight being his first for the Rams since September.
And he made an instant impact scoring with his first touch, subsequently earning praise from Derbyshire Live reporter Leigh Curtis, who posted on X after the game:
John-Jules has now featured three times in League One for Derby County this season.
He’s had a tough few years with injuries and a lack of consistency, spending time out on loan with various clubs up and down the Football League.
Now back from injury and on the scoresheet for the first time at Derby County, John-Jules will be determined to put together a run of games and show the Rams faithful why he was brought in over the summer.
Just what Paul Warne needed
Derby are in good form right now. But on the whole it’s been a tough season at times, with Warne coming under criticism for his side’s inconsistent league form.
And his style of play has come under fire somewhat, with some saying that his Derby County side lack any real energy or drive, especially in attack.
But John-Jules’ return gives Warne a new, more exciting outlet up top, and it could prove to be a real difference-maker for the Rams as they vie to push further up the League One table.
Who next for Derby County?
A fourth-straight win in the league sees Derby County currently sitting in 6th place of the table and with a two-point lead over Barnsley in 7th.
Just three points separate the teams in the top and the Rams are now just six points behind joint-leaders Portsmouth and Bolton Wanderers.
So after a tough couple of months for Warne, things are looking up, and having John-Jules back in the side is a huge plus.
And like Curtis says, the Arsenal man showed exactly what he has to offer; pace and energy, attacking threat, and an eye for goal.
Up next for Derby County is an EFL Trophy clash vs Fleetwood Town next week, with their next league game being a trip to Leyton Orient next month.