The fight for Championship survival has started to heat up in March 2025, with a pivotal three-game week changing the landscape of who may stay in the second tier and who is on a one-way track to League One. Derby County, who seemed headed for an immediate return to the third tier after winning promotion in April 2024, has found new life, winning three consecutive matches under the management of John Eustace.
Following their victory over Blackburn Rovers and Coventry City at Pride Park Stadium, the Rams ventured to Home Park and secured a dramatic 3-2 victory against bottom-table Plymouth Argyle. This victory was marked by a standout performance from Marcus Harness, who netted his third goal in two matches, reaffirming Derby’s determination to claw themselves out of the relegation zone.
In addition to Harness, Harrison Armstrong, an 18-year-old loanee from Everton, provided a key contribution with a goal in the same match. Armstrong’s stunning side-footed volley helped establish a 2-0 lead for Derby. His performance has drawn comparisons to legendary players like Leon Osman, who previously made a significant impact at the club during a relegation battle 21 years ago. As Armstrong becomes one of the first names on the team sheet, Eustace’s focus must now shift to ensuring the young talent’s return next season.
Armstrong has exceeded expectations since joining Derby on transfer deadline day in February 2025, after a quieter start. Operating alongside Ebou Adams and Liam Thompson, he has brought balance to a midfield that had been struggling throughout the current 2024/25 season. His capability to disrupt opposition play and initiate attacks has made him a formidable presence on the pitch.
Despite this impressive run, the prospect of Armstrong being absorbed into Everton's plans for the next season looms large. Following a successful pre-season, David Moyes may elect to deploy him in the Premier League. The challenges faced by such a young player transitioning to the top flight are significant. However, Armstrong’s maturity suggests he could rise to the occasion, much like past Derby alumni—Harry Wilson, Fikayo Tomori, and Mason Mount—who made successful transitions to the Premier League after spells at the club.
Jobi McAnuff, an EFL pundit, expressed optimism about Derby's prospects of avoiding relegation, noting their recent turnaround. After previous struggles, including an appalling run that saw former head coach Paul Warne dismissed, Eustace has revitalized the team. Since taking the helm, Eustace initially lost three matches against QPR, Millwall, and Middlesbrough, adding to the club’s troubles. However, he has now secured victories against Blackburn, Coventry, and Plymouth, marking a remarkable turnaround.
As of mid-March 2025, Derby County occupies the 22nd spot in the Championship, sitting just one point away from safety with eight matches remaining in the season. McAnuff assessed the current situation, stating, “Derby looks the ones who could escape it.” The pundit highlighted that while competition remains fierce from teams like Plymouth, Luton Town, Cardiff City, and Stoke City in the survival race, the Rams have gained much-needed momentum to tackle the coming challenges.
However, while fans are undoubtedly hopeful about the team’s chances, the shadow of relegation still looms. With four or five clubs battling the drop, McAnuff foresees a situation that could culminate on the final day of the season. “I think it’ll go down to the last day,” he remarked. “Derby looks to have enough to survive, but they need to keep up their current performances.”
Another factor in this survival fight beyond the immediate performances of the team is the strength of the club’s youth setup. Armstrong’s recent impact illustrates the importance of nurturing young talent. The hope is that other young players will step up in the coming weeks. With managers across the league keeping a close eye on his development, securing a returning loan deal remains crucial for Derby County if they can maintain their Championship status.
Amidst rising tensions as the season nears its conclusion, Derby’s recent performances have sparked renewed hope in fans and players alike. As they prepare for the remaining matches, John Eustace will continue to steer the club with the hope of retaining its second-tier status. The fervor among supporters is palpable, driving the team to fight unabated against relegation while hoping the learning curve for young stars like Armstrong can gear them for the challenges of the future.
As Derby County's story continues to unfold, their fate hangs in the balance, with drama expected in the weeks ahead. The upcoming fixtures will be pivotal as they seek to secure their position in the Championship while dreaming of reasserting themselves as a competitive side.
