Derby County winger Corey Blackett-Taylor is set to miss the next six weeks after suffering a hamstring injury in Saturday’s 3-1 defeat to Stoke City, head coach John Eustace has confirmed.
The 26-year-old, who spent three months out last season with a similar problem, had set up Carlton Morris’ goal before limping off with ten minutes to play. His absence leaves the Rams short of recognised wingers, though Eustace insists there will be no rush to make panic signings at Pride Park.
Eustace urges patience in recruitment
Speaking to BBC Radio Derby, Eustace said the club are working hard behind the scenes to identify the right additions but will only move if the right player becomes available.
“Possibly if the right ones are available,” he said. “We can’t bring in players just for the sake of it, we’ll have to look at it. I know the club are working very hard on the recruitment side so we’ll just take it from there.”
This summer has seen Derby overhaul their squad, with 11 new arrivals in Eustace’s first transfer window. The manager has urged supporters to remain level-headed and give the team time to settle after finishing 19th in the Championship last season.
Long-term building plan
Eustace stressed that the project at Pride Park is focused on gradual progress over the season rather than quick fixes.
“We’re building over the next seven, eight, nine months, not the next seven, eight, nine days,” he explained. “We’ve had a disappointing result on Saturday but we’ve had a squad of players who’ve been really competitive, with a great attitude, and let’s build properly and see where we are at the end of the season.”
Derby face a busy week, travelling to West Bromwich Albion in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday before hosting Coventry City in the Championship on Saturday lunchtime.
Writer’s View
Blackett-Taylor’s injury is an untimely setback for Derby, particularly given their lack of depth out wide. His pace and ability to create chances will be missed, and Eustace’s measured approach to recruitment will now be tested.
With the transfer window still open, the temptation to dip into the market will be strong, but the club’s emphasis on long-term planning suggests any move will be carefully considered. A positive cup performance in midweek could help maintain momentum as they adapt to this early-season challenge.
