Paul Warne’s Derby County squad are doing a good job so far this season, but as we’re a third of the way through the campaign, one player in particular has really stood out the most as he offers something special.
After returning to the Championship this year, Derby County naturally had to add some new players to their ranks, and Paul Warne has certainly recruited smartly.
In fact, the summer signings are among the main things Warne has got right this season at Derby. With the Rams sitting in 12th place in the table right now, things are looking good and it is thought they can steer clear of a relegation battle this season.
Derby have been fairly consistent thus far, but aside from their reliable heads, it seems the Rams actually have a very unique and fascinating player in their ranks.
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Kenzo Goudmijn praised for unique abilities
In the latest episode of the Championship Check-In podcast, host Benjamin Bloom and guest Sam Parkin were discussing the players they would sign from each club in the second tier.
Looking at the Derby County squad, Bloom picked out new signing Kenzo Goudmijn as his star of the show, and praised the Dutchman for offering something different to the rest of the team.
Bloom said: “I’d go for Goudmijn. I like his profile. Not to denigrate the other Derby players, but when you look around, it’s very sturdy and experienced, and there’s just a little sprinkling of fun with Goudmijn.
Parkin went for another Rams midfielder, highlighting David Ozoh as Warne’s best player. He added: “He’s only played five games as he’s injured now… but he played five games and three of those were victories.
“He’s Combative, can get up and down, uses the ball well. He looks like he can be an important player, and he’s only 19. I would be getting the cheque book out.”
- READ MORE: How Derby County could lineup vs Preston amid David Ozoh injury return and double winger decision
Kenzo Goudmijn’s instant impact at Derby County
Goudmijn, signed for just under £700k this summer from Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar, has made an instant impact on Paul Warne’s squad, and has played every single game for his new club so far.
The diminutive Dutchman has wonderful footwork and loves to dribble with the ball, taking on his men, and opening up dangerous opportunities for Derby. He also possesses great vision, and can execute a range of different passes to break the lines for the Rams.
| Statistic | Kenzo Goudmijn 2024/25 |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 17 |
| Goals | 2 |
| Pass completion | 70.8% |
| Shot-creating actions per 90 | 2.61 |
| Successful take-ons | 56% |
| Progressive carries per 90 | 2.10 |
However, it has been suggested that Goudmijn could be even more effective in a slightly different role. Thus far, the 22-year-old has been utilised as a deep-lying playmaker, but could do more damage in a more advanced position if Warne pushes him higher up the field.
That will largely depend on how David Ozoh slots into the team when he returns from injury, but it is thought the youngster can operate more defensively, giving Goudmijn freedom to roam.