'Patrick today was great' – Derby boss John Eustace hails USMNT’s Patrick Agyemang after impressive debut

The Derby manager highlighted the tough six to seven weeks the American had experienced while recovering from injury complications. The manager specifically noted how Agyemang's physical presence immediately troubled the opposition defense. The summer signing's impact culminated in the 84th minute when his headed pass found Andreas Weimann, who converted to secure Derby's first league win of the 2025-26 Championship campaign.

“Patrick today was great for that 20 minutes when he came on,” Eustace told Derby County’s YouTube channel after the game. “It’s been a tough six or seven weeks for him as well. So we’re getting minutes into the legs, we’re getting minutes into the squad.”

Eustace further noted that the Derby County squad is finally showing signs of growth after a tough start to the season, with several players having been ruled out due to injuries. He also praised the fans for their support and said it was a big reason the players managed to rally together for an impressive second half performance.

“We’re all pulling in the right direction,” Eustace added. “It’s about Derby County family growing day by day, week by week. There’s going to be some really difficult moments, of course there are, but you know, two or three thousand [away] fans again today.

“We’re right behind that group, even in that first half. You know, when we’re under pressure, they’re right behind the boys, and you know, second half we did them proud and we did each other proud, and yeah, I’m just delighted to get the three points today.”

Following their 1-0 win, the Rams sit 19th on the Championship table thanks to their first win of the season after five league games with five points to their name. That includes two draws and as many losses after a tough start to the season for Eustace and his side, as they sit four points off Coventry City in sixth.

Derby County face a tough run ahead as they host Preston North End FC next on Sept. 19 before going on the road to face newly promoted Wrexham AFC on Sept. 26.