Derby County manager John Eustace was visibly furious after his side’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Oxford United, describing the performance as “flat, careless, and far below standard.” The loss, decided by a second-half strike from Oxford’s forward, leaves the Rams’ promotion hopes dented and their manager demanding accountability.
Eustace didn’t mince words post-match, expressing his frustration with both the result and the attitude of some players. “We didn’t show any fight,” he fumed. “Oxford outworked us, out-thought us, and that’s unacceptable for a club of Derby County’s stature. Too many players went missing when it mattered most.”
In a rare move, Eustace openly named Joe Ward as the worst performer of the night, criticizing the winger’s lack of defensive effort and poor decision-making in attack. “Joe knows that wasn’t good enough,” Eustace said bluntly. “He gave the ball away too often and didn’t track back. At this level, you can’t afford that kind of performance.”
The defeat sparked frustration among Derby fans, who voiced their discontent as the team left the pitch. With fixtures coming thick and fast, Eustace promised a reaction. “We’ll make changes if we have to. I want players who care, who fight for the badge,” he added.
Derby now face a crucial test in their next outing, with Eustace demanding a stronger, hungrier display to reignite their campaign and restore belief among s
upporters.