INTERVIEW: Eustace Looks Ahead To Birmingham Battle

Head Coach John Eustace is anticipating another stern test when his Derby County side head to Birmingham City on Boxing Day (12:30pm kick-off).

The Rams head across the Midlands to St. Andrew’s @ Knighthead Park two points and two places above Friday’s hosts, having assembled a three-match unbeaten run in the build-up to Christmas in the Sky Bet Championship.

Eustace, who managed the Blues between July 2022 and October 2023, says he’s wary of his former side’s threats, citing their strong record on home turf - the third best in the division for points per game - as a cause for consideration.

Speaking to RamsTV as part of his pre-match assessment, the Eustace reflected on a year of growth at the club, the buzz of the festive period, and praised Derby fans for their unwavering support throughout 2025.

On Earning A Point Against Portsmouth Last Time Out

We were disappointed not to win the game last weekend, but it’s another point in the right direction. There’s a lot of hard work ahead, lots we can build on.

Teams are adapting to our style and showing us a lot of respect now, so we need to find different ways to perform for 90 minutes and more. I feel we’re in a decent position.

On The Nuances Of Christmas As A Manager

There’s always a special buzz about this time of the year. Football is certainly the nations’ favourite, and it brings everyone together.

It’s a bit different as a Head Coach. The atmosphere and the buzz when you get to the stadium might be a little bit different because there’s a level of seriousness you have to bring. We’ll prepare for every game in very similar fashion; that won’t change over Christmas.

On The Club Celebrating Christmas Together

We’re having families come in over the Christmas period to watch training, making sure they are part of our family here. We’re very much focused on being together and looking after each other.

The Derby County family is growing and getting stronger all the time. To do that, you need good values and a workplace that is an enjoyable place to come - one where players, their families, and the staff are always welcome.

On Facing Birmingham City

They are an excellent team. They are coached very well and have a fantastic squad, one which is there to get promoted, so I’m sure they’ll have a push soon.

On The Incredible Backing From The Rams’ Supporters

The fans have been different class, amazing home and away. Last season, the togetherness we showed was unbelievable and that got us through the last few months. That’s the way we get through difficult times.

Through the highs and the lows of my time here, the fans have been outstanding, and we need another big push from everyone during the second half of the season to keep picking up points.