How Derby County star Ebou Adams fared in Gambia’s 1-0 win over Madagascar 

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Derby County have four players who have represented their nation during the international break.

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing was called up by Guatemala, goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom was selected by Sweden while Wolves loanee Tawanda Chirewa linked up with Zimbabwe.

Derby County midfielder Ebou Adams was also chosen to represent Gambia during the international break, with the 28-year-old starting twice against Madagascar in Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.

Adams played 72 minutes in the first match as Gambia were held to a 1-1 draw however, on Monday afternoon, his side secured a 1-0 victory thanks to Musa Barrow’s 62nd-minute winner.

The win leaves Gambia second in their group and poised to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations alongside Tunisia.

• READ MORE: Five Derby County players at risk of Championship suspension after the international break

How Ebou Adams performed for Gambia vs Madagascar

Adams sealed a permanent move from Cardiff City during the summer after starring on loan in the League One promotion campaign.

The midfield machine has continued that fine form by stepping up to the Championship and cementing his spot in the heart of Paul Warne’s engine room.

Adams was ‘immense’ in Derby’s most recent win over QPR and he continued that form for his nation as he showcased his fearlessness and tough tackling display.

Ebou Adams statistics vs Madagascar

• 88 minutes played
• 57% accurate passes (13/23)
• 5 ground duels won
• 3 fouls drawn
• 2 clearances
• 2 blocked shots
• 2 tackles won

It will be no surprise to Derby fans that Adams was a brute force in midfield, the one who covers every blade of grass to win possession back.

However, his display also highlighted one clear improvement he needs to make to his game and that is how lacklustre he is in possession.

A pass completion of 57% is nowhere near good enough, especially for someone of his quality, and that is an area he must improve.

• READ MORE: Derby County 2024 signing reveals which ‘important’ factor of the English game he had to adapt to

Derby County’s Ebou Adams must improve in possession

For Adams to become a completely better player, he has to use the ball better when he receives it.

The former Forest Green midfielder is guilty of gifting possession to his opponent easily and this is one clear bad habit that he needs to cut out of his game.

Of course, the Rams rely on Kenzo Goudmijn for his creativity from central areas but Adams can help Derby even further by improving his passing.

Adams returns from international duty this week as the Rams prepare for a tough trip to Millwall as they go in search of their first away win this season.