NEW CONTRACT: Homegrown Midfielder Eames Pens New Derby Deal

Derby County Academy midfielder Owen Eames has committed his long-term future to the club after penning a new three-and-a-half-year contract.

The homegrown 19-year-old has agreed a deal that will keep him at Pride Park Stadium until the summer of 2029.

Eames first joined the Rams at the age of seven, progressing through the Academy ranks to make his First Team debut against Leeds United in the Emirates FA Cup earlier this month.

The Swadlincote-born prospect has been a regular fixture around the First Team in the past 12 months, training regularly with John Eustace’s side and appearing on the substitutes’ bench on half a dozen occasions prior to his debut.

Such recognition followed an outstanding 2024/25 season for the Under-18s, with Eames recording 10 goals and eight assists in 17 starts in the U18 Premier League.

The attacking midfielder was rewarded with his maiden professional contract in July 2025, subsequently transitioning to Under-21 level, where he has featured in all but one fixture for Danny Maye’s side this term.

Discussing his new deal, Eames told RamsTV: “It feels amazing. I’ve been at the club for over 10 years and I’ve worked so hard, so it’s a proud day for me and my family.

“I was absolutely buzzing to make my debut. I thought I did well, putting myself about and bringing lots of energy, but there’s still more to come.

“The step up from Under-21 level to First Team has been a lot harder than I thought. The first few weeks were tough on the body but - now I’m used to it - it’s great to be around top players and learn so much each and every day.

“I just want to play as many games as possible, make sure I perform to the best of my ability at every opportunity, and kick on in the seasons ahead.”

Interim Academy Manager, Jamie Smith, said: “We are delighted to secure the long-term future of Owen to the Football Club. This contract provides Owen the stability to fully focus on his long-term development, which is underpinned by the work going on at Moor Farm between Academy and First Team staff.

“It is vitally important to recognise the large amount of time, effort, and support from staff across the whole club in ensuring Owen has always had the environment and expertise to guide him on his Academy journey. As a club, we get huge satisfaction when players progress through every development phase and achieve their dream of playing First Team football.

“Our focus is now fully placed on ensuring we nurture Owen’s potential through his training programme, ensuring he is ready to accrue more minutes and experiences within the senior game.”