Just one player was praised following Derby County’s defeat to Reading last night.
Derby County made it two games without a win or even a goal as they were narrowly beaten by Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Despite ending 2024 with eleven goals in five games, The Rams seem to have lost their ability in front of goal over the last week.
Derby have now had a total of 30 shots in their last two matches – with only three of them coming on target. All three of those came in the 0-0 stalemate against Lincoln City at the weekend.
Paul Warne‘s side missed the opportunity to go top of League One and a number of players were criticised as they were ‘outfought’ by The Royals.
However, one player that did pick up some credit was Callum Elder.
The defender received a seven rating from Derbyshire Live journalist Leigh Curtis. He wrote: “Derby’s best player by some distance in the first half as he rampaged up the touchline, showed plenty of industry and used the ball smartly at times. Never stopped.”
Elder has only made five starts in League One this season after joining on a free transfer in the summer, before spending over two months on the sidelines before Christmas.
Injuries have handed the 28-year-old a chance back in the starting line-up though and he has now started the last three games, picking up two clean sheets.
How impressive was Callum Elder?
Despite an underwhelming performance from Derby County, Callum Elder was given the joint-highest match rating by sofascore (7.2) – matching up nicely with Leigh Curtis’ verdict.
The Australian made two clearances, one block and one interception. He also had 82 touches and completed 38 passes – second to only Eiran Cashin – and won 100% of his aerial duels.
He also had a positive impact going forward too – making two key passes and also succeeding with two out of three of his dribbles up the pitch.
With Craig Forsyth expected to be sidelined for another 3-4 weeks, Elder could really take advantage of his opportunity in the first team and solidify his spot for when the veteran returns to action.