Paul Warne Singles Out ‘Very Good’ Derby County Player After Plymouth Argyle Draw – It’s Not Yates
Derby County manager **Paul Warne** has praised one of his players for an impressive individual performance during the Rams’ 1-1 draw against **Plymouth Argyle**, highlighting the positive contributions in what was a frustrating evening for his side. Despite Derby failing to secure all three points at **Pride Park**, Warne took the opportunity to single out **David McGoldrick**, the veteran striker, for his outstanding display, which he described as “very good.”
While much of the focus in the aftermath of the draw had been on Derby’s inability to break down Plymouth’s resilient defence, Warne was quick to deflect attention towards McGoldrick’s performance, underscoring the forward’s importance to the team.
**McGoldrick’s Performance Against Plymouth**
Derby County’s clash with Plymouth was a game full of possession but lacking in clear-cut chances. Despite Derby dominating the ball, it was Plymouth who took the lead early, with the Rams struggling to convert possession into goals. However, **David McGoldrick** proved to be a standout performer, offering both creativity and a sharp eye for goal.
Warne, while addressing the performance of the team post-match, noted that McGoldrick’s individual efforts were a rare bright spot in an otherwise challenging evening. “He was very good again,” Warne stated, praising McGoldrick’s ability to hold up the ball, link up play, and consistently be in the right positions to create opportunities for his teammates.
One of the key factors in McGoldrick’s performance was his involvement in Derby’s equaliser. The striker’s clever movement and composure in the final third allowed him to play a key role in the build-up, before helping to carve out a chance for **Tom Barkhuizen** to finish. Although McGoldrick didn’t score himself, his contribution to Derby’s attacking efforts was undeniable.
**A Leader on and off the Field**
McGoldrick’s influence extends beyond his technical abilities. The 36-year-old has become a leader within Derby’s dressing room, bringing experience and calmness to a relatively young squad. Warne’s praise for McGoldrick was not limited to his on-field display, but also acknowledged the positive impact he has in guiding younger players through difficult situations. His experience in the Championship with clubs like **Sheffield United** has given him a wealth of knowledge, and he’s clearly been imparting that to his teammates at Pride Park.
For Derby, McGoldrick is more than just a striker; he’s a talisman who has the ability to change a game with a moment of brilliance. While **James Collins** has been the team’s primary goal-scorer this season, McGoldrick provides an invaluable link between midfield and attack, his sharpness and footballing intelligence giving Derby a more fluid and dynamic offensive edge.
**Warne’s Tactical Approach: McGoldrick’s Role**
Warne’s tactics against Plymouth were focused on possession and patience, but the team struggled to break down the visitors’ well-organised defence. The absence of **Max Bird** due to injury was felt in midfield, with Warne forced to make adjustments in the centre of the park. Despite those challenges, McGoldrick’s ability to adapt to Warne’s tactical demands was a clear advantage for the Rams.
The striker’s ability to play with his back to goal, bring others into play, and track back when needed allows Warne the flexibility to use him in various roles across the front line. In this particular match, McGoldrick operated as a central figure, linking up with **Conor Washington** and **Tom Barkhuizen**, trying to unlock the Plymouth defence. While the result didn’t go Derby’s way, McGoldrick’s work rate and intelligence in the final third remained evident throughout.
**The Bigger Picture: Derby’s Promotion Push**
While the 1-1 draw with Plymouth Argyle was a setback in Derby’s bid for promotion, Warne will take heart from McGoldrick’s consistent performances. In a season where the Rams are aiming for automatic promotion back to the Championship, having a player of McGoldrick’s calibre in their ranks could prove to be a deciding factor.
With the squad experiencing some inconsistency, particularly in the attacking third, McGoldrick’s experience and composure could make all the difference over the course of a long season. As Derby looks to mount a serious promotion challenge, having a player who can consistently deliver in tight situations is a luxury that Warne will be grateful for.
**Moving Forward: A Key Figure for Warne**
Looking ahead, McGoldrick will be a key figure in Derby’s quest for promotion, especially as the team heads into the winter months where fixtures will come thick and fast. While other players such as **James Collins** and **Conor Washington** will be relied upon for goals, McGoldrick’s ability to orchestrate play and offer leadership on the pitch gives Derby an added dimension.
Paul Warne’s praise for McGoldrick is a reminder of how important experience and quality can be in League One, where the competition is fierce and every point counts. If McGoldrick can continue his strong form, Derby County will have a player capable of leading them to the top of the table. As Warne himself said, McGoldrick was “very good again” against Plymouth — a sentiment that Derby fans will hope to hear many more times throughout the season.
