Derby County lost 4-2 in their opening Championship clash vs Blackburn Rovers.
Derby County played John Eustace’s Blackburn Rovers in their opening game of the 2024/25 Championship season on Friday night.
Paul Warne, who’s been tipped to struggle in the Championship this season, took his new-look first-team squad to Ewood Park for what promised to be a tough opener against Championship regulars Blackburn.
Derby have signed eight new players so far this summer and have made use of the loan and free markets, as well as spending money on the likes of Kenzo Goudmijn as well as sealing the return of Ebou Adams.
Blackburn Rovers went into half-time a goal in front thanks to Tyrhys Dolan, though Curtis Nelson would head home a corner midway through the second half to level the scores.
The Rams weren’t back in the game for too long though, with Blackburn back ahead after five minutes, and then 4-1 in front by the 84-minute mark with Kane Wilson grabbing a late consolation.
- READ MORE: Paul Warne reveals one thing that will get Derby County players a ‘massive fine’ this season
Derby County fans impressed by Kenzo Goudmijn vs Blackburn Rovers
Derby County signed Goudmijn for a reported fee of £600,000.
The Dutchman left his native Netherlands and started for his new club at Ewood Park, going on to impress in what was his first outing in English football.
Derby County fans took to social media to share their praise for the 22-year-old, who started in central midfield alongside fellow summer signing David Ozoh.
One Rams supporters said: “Head and shoulders above every other player in our team,” with others describing the Dutchman as a “class act” and a “baller”.
Meanwhile, another Derby County fan said the club has “unearthed a gem” in Goudmijn, wither another fan describing Goudmijn as; “neat and tidy, technical, wants the ball, and has a great cross on him.”
Can Derby County find more hidden gems in Europe
Buying players from Europe can often be hit and miss.
But Goudmijn seems to have settled into the Championship relatively quickly, showing his technical quality in what was a tough opening match for the Rams.
It’s a long season still, and Goudmijn still has a lot to prove if he’s to continue impressing the Derby County fans.
And after seeing how well he’s performed, Warne may urge his recruitment team to go for more European gems in what’s remaining of the summer transfer window.
Friday’s result may suggest that Derby are still lacking a bit of star quality in their ranks, especially in attack with Derby offering very little overall.