Football Season Review

Derby will be pleased at a highly encouraging 2011-12 campaign that briefly saw the Rams flirt with the play-offs. That was a step too far but Nigel Clough’s decision to give young players such as Jeff Hendrick and Mark O’Brien chances worked to great success. Having paid top wages to journeymen footballers, the club appear to have a solid foundation, although whether they have the ambition or resources for a top flight push remains to be seen especially after Paul Green announced he was leaving before the end of the season. Defensively Derby were good with Jason Shackell adding steal to the defence alongside Shaun Barker. However the Rams were dealt a huge blow when captain Barker shattered his knee in March and he could miss the whole of 2012-13. Derby’s overall 50 goals in the campaign was disappointing especially given the amount of chances they created. Theo Robinson and Steven Davies were big culprits in front of goal although the pair did manage 12 each. Youngsters Mason Bennett and especially Callum Ball proved they are good enough to play up-front after coming through the ranks.

Player of the Season: Jeff Hendrick