It’s no surprise to hear another boss give Keogh praise
“Duane is currently training with the team - almost all training sessions, for the last two days,” said Cocu.
“So it’s going well. Of course, he will need some more time but we’re happy he has joined the team.”
Andre Wisdom (knee), George Thorne (calf ), Ikechi Anya (calf ) and Craig Forsyth (knee) are all still unavailable. DIFFERENT manager, same praise.
“He is a great captain, a great professional and a great example for all the players. I am happy to have him in the team,” new Derby County boss Phillip Cocu said of Richard Keogh after the defender played his 350th game for the Rams.
How many managers have said the same about Keogh?
How many managers have not only selected the Republic of Ireland international week in, week out, but also had him as their captain?
The answer. Far too many for it to be a coincidence, far too many for them all to be wrong.
Keogh was named man of the match in Saturday’s goalless draw against Swansea City at Pride Park Stadium and he has made a solid start to the season alongside his new partner at centre-back, Matt Clarke.
It is rare these days for a player to rack up so many games at one club. Whether he is your cup of tea as a player or not, such an achievement deserves praise.
“That (350 appearances) is a huge number - I think there will be more,” Cocu said.
Keogh turned 33 on Sunday and on the evidence of last season and the start of this, he is playing as well as ever.
That is credit to his longevity, determination and desire to play and improve. He has averaged 50 games a season in his time at Derby and has shown a wonderful consistency in being available and also with his form.
Only 19 players have made more appearances in Derby’s long history and he has twice been named player of the year.
Derby have had some outstanding central defenders down the years but this is not about where or even if Keogh sits in that list.
This is about where he stands as a centre-back in the current Derby squad, and within the Championship, and recognising his value.
A £1m signing from Coventry City in 2012, and another shrewd signing by former Rams manager Nigel Clough, Keogh has proved terrific value for money and an excellent servant.