Paul Warne has waxed lyrical about the performances of one Derby County player after the 2-0 win over QPR on Saturday.
It was a victory that returned Derby to winning ways after falling off the wagon with three defeats against Sheffield United, Norwich City and Sunderland.
Paul Warne was also left delighted by the display of Curtis Nelson, labelling the defensive titan an ‘unbelievable performer’ in the heart of the defence.
Nelson’s bullet header sent the Rams on their way while Marcus Harness’ first goal for the club wrapped up the three points and saw him receive praise from the supporters as a result.
There was one player who perhaps went under the radar at Pride Park on Saturday, with Warne now giving his flowers to the Derby star.
Paul Warne on Kenzo Goudmijn
That player is midfield maestro Kenzo Goudmijn, who has been a joy to watch since arriving for a bargain £600,000 from AZ Alkmaar.
The Dutchman has slotted into the heart of Warne’s midfield like a glove, with the Derby boss now showering some of his attributes with praise, including his ability to accelerate from players and spray long-range passes.
Goudmijn attempted four dribbles and recorded an 85% pass completion against QPR, as per Sofascore, and Warne has described his contribution as ‘outstanding’.
“He’s good, isn’t he? I like him,” Warne said as per Derbyshire Live. “At times, we don’t keep the ball safe enough, and that’s not a good way to put it, but sometimes we take risks when we don’t need to. Then, when we need to take a risk, we don’t. It’s the weirdest thing.
“But he gets the balance really well. He can switch play, and if he overhits one, you’ll see me jump and clap – I don’t care. I like people who play with bravery.
“He is good with his feet; he accelerates away from people – he’s just a really good footballer. I thought he was our outstanding performer at the weekend. He really helped us have a bit of guile and control at times when we didn’t.”
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Goudmijn offers unique attributes to Derby County’s midfield
Warne assembled a midfield in the summer that was filled with energy and industry. The likes of David Ozoh and Ebou Adams symbolise those attributes in abundance.
However, it’s the addition of Goudmijn who oozes class in central areas and perhaps offers something in the Derby squad that no other player can.
The Dutchman’s passing radar is on a different level from the rest of his teammates and he can see the game in a completely different picture.
Whether he’s threading short passes around the corner or pulling some audacious 70 yard switches out of the bag, Goudmijn’s presence in midfield is so important.
He’s always looking for a forward pass when Derby build-up in attack while his ability to execute has played a crucial role in their strong start.