Derby County's dismal start to the Championship season has left manager John Eustace describing it as the toughest period of his career. The Rams sit 23rd in the table with just seven points from 13 games, having won only once all term, a record of one win, four draws and eight defeats.
Their 4-1 defeat at Millwall on Saturday was a sixth loss in a nine-match winless run, leaving them deep in a relegation battle and a full 21 points behind the league leaders. They have conceded 25 goals while scoring just 11, giving them a goal difference of minus 14. The heavy loss at The Den, where they conceded three early goals before Filip Bilbija scored a late consolation, extended a poor recent run of no wins, two draws and three losses in their last five matches.
Managerial challenges
Eustace, who was appointed in February 2025, is under increasing pressure. He pointed to recruitment issues and player availability as central to the club's problems. "It's been the toughest three months, definitely, through recruitment and personnel that are available to us," the Derby boss said.
The slow start follows a failed takeover attempt during the summer and comes after the club finished just four points outside the playoff places last season. Injury problems have also hampered the squad, forcing several key players out of action.
Upcoming fixture
The immediate focus shifts to Tuesday night's home game against Norwich City. The Canaries are 15th in the Championship, offering Derby a chance to arrest their slide and climb out of the bottom three. That match takes place on Tuesday 3 November.
Recent form shows the scale of the task, with the Rams taking just two points from their last five matches. Their last victory was back in September. The team will need to improve quickly, starting with the Norwich match at Pride Park on 3 November.
Background and full detail: bbc.co.uk
