Latest Derby County news from DerbyshireLive brings you an exclusive interview with the former Rams goalkeeper
Derby County is now gearing up for life in the Championship after a record-breaking season under Paul Warne, finishing second behind Portsmouth. The team achieved historic milestones with 13 away wins, the most in Rams history, and the highest points tally in 17 years, marking their first promotion in that time.
Loach, the team’s third-choice goalkeeper, recalled feeling the certainty of their success during pre-season last summer. He credited a pivotal moment during a team dinner in Spain, where Hourihane delivered a speech that inspired confidence throughout the squad.
“It’s my first promotion in my career, and being a part of it was incredible,” Loach shared with DerbyshireLive. “From that evening in Spain, I don’t think anyone doubted our destiny. Conor gave a speech during a dinner out in an Italian restaurant, mentioning ‘see you in the desert,’ referring to Las Vegas where the team celebrated after securing promotion.”
“From that moment, I sensed everyone knew we would achieve our goal. I told those around me, ‘There’s no way we won’t go up.’ The camaraderie was palpable that night.”
“Seeing Curtis Nelson and Sonny Bradley, who I’ve faced before, their commitment and determination were evident. Sonny, despite admitting some fitness concerns, assured us we’d make it, and he proved it.”
“Observing Korey Smith and the young players like Birdy, their dedication was clear. Even during our rough patches, I never doubted our ability to bounce back.”
Derby’s remarkable season was built on unity and determination, making their promotion a memorable achievement for the club and its supporters.
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Loach highlighted the strong camaraderie within the squad as pivotal to Derby County’s success, culminating in their season-ending victory with 92 points against Carlisle. He emphasized that maintaining high standards was crucial, with players holding each other accountable even amid their unity.
“You could see the team’s consistency throughout, barring maybe one or two exceptions. When changes were made, the performance levels didn’t drop,” he explained. “Captain Conor Hourihane mentioned he didn’t start as often towards the end, but everyone was committed to upholding those high standards.”
“In terms of goalkeeping, when Joe Wildsmith played, Josh Vickers was outstanding in training. Yet, when Vickers got his chance, it could have caused friction, but Joe remained superb. It wasn’t a rivalry; they pushed each other competitively, raising training standards. This competitiveness was evident throughout the team. Curtis Nelson or Eiran Cashin would make an impact, followed by Sonny Bradley dominating in aerial duels during set-piece drills.”
“Players like Louie Sibley and Tyreece John-Jules from Arsenal also made significant contributions in training, surprising everyone. It was a supportive environment where everyone pushed each other, even if Mendez-Laing or Korey Smith, known for their amiability, were vocal on the pitch. The message was clear: it’s about achieving results, nothing personal.”
“Reflecting on our time in Spain, Captain Hourihane set the tone, emphasizing commitment and accountability. If anyone wasn’t fully dedicated, not just the manager but the team itself would address it. As the third-choice keeper, I focused on maintaining gym standards, ensuring I contributed positively. Each player had a role, and everyone fulfilled it admirably.”
Derby’s achievement was underscored by their collective spirit and determination, ensuring every member contributed to their promotion-winning season.
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