John Eustace must change one Derby County ace’s position after return to solve latest transfer issue

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It’s been a positive pre-season for Derby County.

It’s been three wins, a draw and a defeat so far for the Rams, with their latest victory coming against National League opposition in the form of Solihull Moors.

It was another excellent evening for Corey Blackett-Taylor, who has regained his confidence under John Eustace, and another goal for youngster Charles Ebuka Agbawodikeizu has perhaps given the East Midlands outfit a new option going forward.

However, it was also an important evening for three other players as they returned from injury. Andreas Weimann made his second non-competitive debut for Derby as Ryan Nyambe returned to the fold. But, there should be focus on Joe Ward, as he could play a very important role this season.

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John Eustace may plan to play Joe Ward as a winger at Derby County

Since joining the Rams in the summer of 2023, it’s not exactly gone to plan for Ward in black-and-white with fitness issues disrupting any sort of momentum for the ex-Peterborough United man.

When he has made it onto the pitch, he has featured in a right-back/wing-back role that has never truly suited him and he has often been caught out defensively.

To counter this, Eustace must make the decision to play Ward as a winger – especially if he wants to utilise the 4-2-3-1 formation that would unlock Kenzo Goudmijn.

With David Ozoh now back at Derby, he has a solid base in midfield to work from, with Ebou Adams able to partner the Crystal Palace youngster there. Blackett-Taylor must play off the left and Ward on the right, it could make the Rams a threat.

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John Eustace has not signed a winger so far this summer

It’s been a strong summer for Derby as they have added to areas where they lack quality, with the signings of Carlton Morris from Luton Town and the £5.8m addition of Patrick Agyemang particularly good.

Yet, they still lack wingers. Kayden Jackson failed to impress last season and there are question marks as to whether he is better out wide or in a more central position.

Ward can help provide cover on the flank and he is also superb at getting the ball into the box and into areas which his teammates can attack the ball.

While there is still a month left in the transfer window, Eustace will want to act quickly to ensure that he does add depth to the wings, but the 29-year-old will be extremely useful if he can remain injury-free.