Derby County’s new signing has gained his plaudits from a former Premier League manager.
The Rams suffered defeat at the start of the 2024/25 Championship season, with Blackburn Rovers unwinding Paul Warne’s side in a 4-2 result in favour of the Lancashire side.
Several players’ performances were criticised, particularly on the defensive front, with four goals shipped, as Eiran Cashin was criticised for a performance that was seen to be ‘rash’ at times.
However, a midfield performance from new arrival Kenzo Goudmijn raised hopes for Rams fans, despite the deflating defeat on the road.
Goudmijn was one of four new arrivals in Warne’s starting 11, alongside the likes of Kayden Jackson and David Ozoh, the latter of which was praised by former Derby County captain and fan-favourite Curtis Davies.
There is still plenty of optimism amongst Derby County fans about their new signings, with one, like Goudmijn, being tipped to make his mark at Pride Park.
Paul Heckingbottom praises Derby County’s ‘terrific’ Ben Osborn
Ben Osborn arrived from Sheffield United this summer on a free transfer.
The midfielder suffered relegation from the Premier League in a season that was kicked off under the leadership of former Sheffield United boss Paul Heckingbottom, who has praised the midfielder following his arrival at Pride Park.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Heckingbottom said: “[He’s a] terrific character. He is a down-to-earth lad, very motivated, very determined.
“He probably kept his affiliation with Derby quiet coming through at Forest.
“I actually spoke to him when he was in the middle of the medical here, and he was talking about how pleased he was to get this move.
“I think it’s good for Ben, I think it’s good for Warny, and I think it’s good for Derby.”
Experience of Ben Osborn will be crucial after Blackburn defeat
Although it was just the first game of the season, Derby County players must make sure to not become depleted following the Blackburn Rovers game in which they shipped four goals.
The younger players may struggle at times to come back from big defeats, however, having the likes of Osborn in-and-around the changing room will be massively beneficial for Derby County this season.
Derby County were in need to bring in proven and experienced Championship players that can act as leaders and role-models for the young and inexperienced ranks, which could be the difference between players picking themselves up and letting their confidence deflate.
Osborn showed that, despite the fairly heavy defeat, he is able to make a significant impact in the centre-of-the-park and that just shows the ‘determined’ nature of the midfielder that Heckingbottom speaks so highly of.