High marks for Rams as they quickly turn tables in second tier

CHAMPIONSHIP TOP SIX JUST OUT OF REACH AFTER SOME TOP INDIVIDUAL PERFORMANCES

- By LEIGH CURTIS

Derby County defender Matt Clarke (right) is congratulated after scoring against Sheffield Wednesday. Inset, top left: Rams forwards Carlton Morris (left) and Patrick Agyemang. Inset, top right: Midfielder Bobby Clark (left) and keeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

(SHUTTERSTOCK, PA, GETTY IMAGES)

DERBY County missed out on the Championship top six but hopes are high they can go one better next season and challenge for promotion to the Premier League.

Under the guidance of John Eustace, the Rams challenged for a play-off place right down to the wire, only to fall short on the final day of the campaign.

There have been some fabulous individual performances by Rams players. Patrick Agyemang and Carlton Morris scored 10 and 12 goals respectively, while Rhian Brewster netted seven.

And there have also been some excellent defensive contributions as the Rams turned the tables 12 months after escaping relegation.

Here are my Rams player ratings for the season:

Jacob Widell Zetterstrom

Missed a considerable chunk of the season after suffering a virus but returned towards the end to reinforce his credentials as one of the Championship's best goalkeepers. His performance against QPR was outstanding and he is bound for the World Cup finals. Won save of the season, too. Rating: 8/10

Josh Vickers

Whenever called upon, the former Lincoln City goalkeeper never lets you down and thoroughly deserved the new contract handed to him earlier this year. Has been an excellent signing and is great behind the scenes, too. Rating: 7/10

Richard O'Donnell

When Vickers and Zetterstrom were unavailable, his experience demonstrated why it's important to have somebody like that as part of the goalkeepers' union. Another player whose stay was extended and deservedly so. Derby have no issues with their goalkeepers. Rating: 7/10

Joe Ward