Derby County resume their Championship campaign this weekend with a lunchtime clash against Oxford United, led by their former manager Gary Rowett.
After the international break, John Eustace’s men will look to build on their strong showing against Southampton last time out. Oxford, meanwhile, are battling near the bottom of the table, having won just one of their first nine league fixtures — though they remain above both Sheffield clubs. Their most recent outing ended in a 2-1 defeat at Watford.
Eustace will be hoping that Sondre Langas, Owen Beck, and Corey Blackett-Taylor can return from injury in time for the trip.
Derby Fans Fume Over Sheffield United Ticket Prices
Derby supporters are once again up in arms after Sheffield United confirmed away ticket prices of £38 for next month’s clash — the same figure that caused outrage last season.
It’s among the most expensive away days in the Championship, and many Rams fans have taken to social media to vent their frustration. Factoring in travel and food, the cost of following the team on the road continues to escalate.
Some fans shared their thoughts online:
- Mark Curtin: “£38 for Sheffield United vs Derby — two bottom-five teams. I could watch a Premier League match for £30 and get better football. Something’s off.”
- Mick Gregson: “Only way this stops is if everyone says no and refuses to go.”
- Ash: “Why do clubs always rinse us? We’re fair when away fans visit Pride Park.”
- Martin B-B: “At what point do fans stop going? We’ll still sell out, but £38 for that ground is disgraceful. The Championship needs an away price cap like the Premier League.”
- Ben: “I love away days with my boys, but £72 for three tickets is madness. Prices are out of control.”
Derby have long supported calls for the EFL to introduce a £30 away ticket cap, mirroring the Premier League’s policy. However, the proposal has yet to pass due to opposition from several clubs.
James Chester Returns to Manchester United
Former Derby defender James Chester has returned to Manchester United — this time as a youth coach.
The ex-Rams centre-back, who left Pride Park in 2023, is now helping coach the under-15s and under-16s on a voluntary basis three evenings a week.
It marks a sentimental homecoming for Chester, who began his career at United before joining Hull City 14 years ago in what Sir Alex Ferguson once called “an absolute steal.”
After spells with Hull, Stoke, and Aston Villa, Chester signed for Derby in 2022. Injuries limited his impact, and after missing out on promotion, he was released by Paul Warne. He later played briefly for Barrow and Salford City before retiring earlier this year.
England U21s Triumph at Pride Park
Pride Park hosted international action during the break as England Under-21s claimed a 1-0 win over Andorra in their European Championship qualifier.
Chelsea forward Tyrique George netted the winner just before half-time after clever link-up play with teammate Jamie Gittens.
In front of over 9,000 fans, the Young Lions — managed by former Derby midfielder Lee Carsley — dominated proceedings. Brooke Norton-Cuffy and Ethan Nwaneri went close to adding to the lead, while Josh King saw a goal ruled out for offside.
The result leaves England top of Group D, boasting three wins, three clean sheets, and maximum points. Carsley’s men will next face Republic of Ireland and Slovakia in November.
Derby now turn their focus back to domestic matters as they prepare for what promises to be a fiery return to Championship action against their former boss.