Duane Holmes started for Frank Lampard’s Derby County as they lost 1-0 at Championship rivals Nottingham Forest at the City Ground.
Duane Holmes was perhaps the only Derby County player who emerged from Monday’s 1-0 defeat at Nottingham Forest with his reputation enhanced.
Frank Lampard’s Rams were well below their best, and not for the first time in recent weeks, as they lost against their East Midlands rivals at the City Ground; a result sealed in the first 74 seconds by a close range Yohan Benalouane finish.
Ashley Cole looked every one of his 38 years up against Joe Lolley, Tom Huddlestone was outshone and outran in midfield while Martyn Waghorn wasted any of the few opportunities that Derby created.
But at least Holmes has given the fans something to feel positive about.
The former Scunthorpe United winger has been one of Derby’s brightest performances in 2019 with his speed, trickery and direct style earning him plenty of admiration from the Pride Park support.
While not everything came off for the 24-year-old on Monday night, Holmes did at least show some ‘cojones’, to borrow Diego Simeone’s favourite term. Bright, lively and determined to make an impression, if only his teammates shared the same attitude.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
