Derby County are still trying to mastermind their way back to the Premier League and five years ago that was still the case.
Derby County are once again looking for inspiration in their fight to reach the top flight following the departure of Nigel Pearson. They have spent years being fingertips away from promotion back into the Premier League, and five years ago they were still very much searching for a way back to the big time.
In 2011, the Rams were experiencing their fourth season back in the Championship following their disastrous year in the Premier League. Under Nigel Clough fans were continually optimistic that the son of potentially their most treasured manager could bring the good times back to Pride Park.
Unfortunately that was not to be the case in this campaign, as the club fell to a mid-table finish despite Clough being pleased with their performances.
That continued to be the theme throughout his tenure at Derby, with fans growing increasingly frustrated that he was not guiding the team to where they felt they deserved to be.
If you offered fans the chance to go back, they would likely say no. Despite the uncertain times currently surrounding them, they still have a greater foundation now than they did five years ago in terms of being able to sustain a push for promotion.
The quality within the side is undeniable, and with the right man in charge they are certainly capable of turning things around. If there was any league in the world where a bad start was not the end of the world, it is the Championship.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
