Wayne Rooney’s Derby County resurgence suffered a major setback in South Wales last night.
But, even as the Rams were sheared by a ruthless, remorseless Cardiff City, Beni Baningime did at least stand out from a sorry crowd.
Making his first start in Derby colours the Everton loanee was, according to the more optimistic members of the Pride Park fanbase, one of the few positives on a night full of negatives.
Baningime caught the eye on Merseyside thanks to his composure in possession and tenacity in the tackle.
And, even during a 4-0 defeat to Mick McCarthy’s galloping dark horses, the 22-year-old offered a timely reminder why he was once viewed as the most talented member of an exciting crop of youngsters at Goodison Park.
Baningime completed 92 per cent of his passes during his full Derby debut while managing five successful tackles – more than anyone else on the pitch (WhoScored).
Doubts persist over whether Baningime can elevate Rooney’s side to any great degree – he shares a similar skillset with that of Graeme Shinnie and Max Bird after all.
But the Everton-owned enforcer has done his chances of a more regular starting berth no harm at all, even during a miserable Tuesday night in Cardiff.
Here’s what some Derby fans had to say on Twitter about Baningime’s performance:
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