"He understood" - Derby County owner David Clowes issues John Eustace message | OneFootball

Derby County owner David Clowes has singled out head coach John Eustace for special praise after Championship survival was confirmed

Derby County owner David Clowes has delivered a heartfelt message to supporters, singling out head coach John Eustace, as well as CEO Stephen Pearce, for special praise after the club’s dramatic escape from relegation.

In a statement released via the club’s official website, Rams owner Clowes reflected on a season of highs and lows, ultimately expressing pride in the club’s resilience and optimism for the future.

Clowes was candid about the decision to sack Paul Warne in February, admitting that the run of poor results at the start of the year forced the club’s hand.

The Rams suffered eight consecutive defeats across all competitions, dating back to late December. With seven of those losses coming in the Championship, Warne was dismissed during their longest league losing streak in 17 years.

David Clowes delighted with Derby head coach John Eustace

The decision to appoint John Eustace was made with full confidence in the then-Blackburn Rovers boss’s ability to turn things around.

Clowes also revealed that Eustace’s previous connection to the club as a player helped, but it was the manager’s willingness to buy into Derby’s long-term vision that made the difference.

Clowes wrote: "With John Eustace we were sure he could turn things around.

"His track record tells you that but even putting past achievements aside, you only have to meet him to know that he has that something special, those innate qualities of leadership and determination to get the job done.

"We also had to convince him that, no matter what happened this season, there was a clearly defined plan for the future of Derby County and that it was an exciting one.

"He understood and bought into that vision and has already taken a giant step towards it by making sure we are a Championship club."

Eustace’s leadership, together with the unwavering commitment of his staff and players, has been pivotal in keeping Derby in the second tier, and Clowes made a point of thanking everyone involved, highlighting the squad’s “strength of character” during the club’s most testing moments.

David Clowes excited about Derby County's future under John Eustace

While Clowes admits that “relief” is the overriding emotion after a tense campaign, he insists that pride in the team’s achievement and the support of the fans is just as important. He sees this season as a stepping stone, not just a narrow escape.

"This will undoubtedly be a stepping stone towards an even stronger and brighter future for the club,” Clowes added, urging fans to enjoy the summer and look forward to a new chapter at Pride Park.

Clowes’s message is clear - with Eustace at the helm, a committed squad, and a passionate set of supporters, Derby County are ready to write the next chapter in their storied history -one filled with hope, ambition, and a determination to do the very best for the club.