Derby County finally secured the permanent signing of Ebou Adams from Cardiff City and the midfielder has now issued a promise to the fans.
Supporters are always told to never fall in love with a loan player but on this occasion, Derby fans can continue showing their adulation for Ebou Adams.
It’s been a long time coming but the Rams finally secured a permanent deal for Adams, arriving on a three-year contract from Cardiff City.
The ball-winning machine starred on loan at Pride Park from January 2024 onwards, adding a defensive steeliness and work rate that was otherwise missing before his arrival.
Adams quickly gained fan favourite status in Derbyshire, prompting cries for the club to seal a permanent move, with the 28-year-old now becoming their fifth signing of the summer.
Having previously spoken of his delight to train every day at Derby, the Gambian international made himself feel at home and has now issued a promise to the supporters.
Ebou Adams issues clear promise to Derby County fans after sealing permanent transfer
Derby have made some shrewd additions so far, including Ben Osborn and Kenzo Goudmijn but Adams returning to the club has received the biggest reception.
The impact he had on Paul Warne’s squad as they sealed promotion to the Championship was incredible and after looking back on the final day victory over Carlisle United, Adams has promised to ‘fight every game’ for the club.
Speaking to the official club website, he said: “It’s a day I’ll never forget [the final day win against Carlisle], I think people have asked me over the summer ‘is that one of the best ones’, I said ‘yeah, it has to be’.
“I fully can’t remember much but obviously with the photos looking back, wow what a moment. And it wasn’t just for me, it was for the club in itself.
“They’re back to where they belong and I think now it’s time to get our heads down and do what we can in this league because I’m not disrespecting League One, but it won’t be easy so we’re going to have to fight every game and just enjoy the moment, because that’s what I’m going to be doing.”
Why Ebou Adams is such an important signing for Derby County
Adams brought something to the Derby squad that no other player could provide last term; the anticipation and ability to win possession back for his team.
He transformed a midfield that was devoid of legs and energy by showcasing his ball-winning skills and dominant performances.
Supporters fell in love with the midfielder for those key reasons and heading into the Championship, those attributes will be called upon more often.
Warne’s men will go long spells of matches without the ball and with Adams present in midfield, they know their chances of winning the engine room battles are high.
Further, he can also bring the best out of attacking midfielder Kenzo Goudmijn, who will have the license to roam forward while Adams holds down the fort.