‘Clough era was brilliant’

BY

AN old boys’ reunion at Pride Park for Derby’s last game of the season on Saturday could lift the gloom of relegation to League One... for a few hours at least.

Members of Brian Clough’s titlewinning Rams side of 1972 have been invited in recognition of the 50th anniversary of that amazing feat.

What a contrast. Around this time half a century ago most of the side went celebrating in Mallorca, while Wayne Rooney’s current incumbents face an uncertain summer and life in football’s third tier.

Alan Durban (above), a midfield driving force of Clough and Peter Taylor’s shock troops, is aware of the irony of this week’s get-together.

“Hopefully, seeing some of the old title-winning players around the club will help lift the spirits, especially of older supporters who were around in that incredible season,” Durban said.

“It’s unbelievable that they now find themselves in League One.

“Everyone assumes Derby will quickly get out of League One next season, but as Sunderland – a club I managed when they were in the top flight – have discovered, it’s not easy.

“There are big clubs down there, Sheffield Wednesday being another.

“Nothing is guaranteed in football. Look at Oldham, who were once in the Premier League. They’ve just gone out of the Football League.”

At least for one day the fans will be able to wallow in some welcome nostalgia at how Clough and Taylor lifted Derby out of the doldrums to become the best team in England.

“Cloughie always said Derby were his favourite times, even though he went on to win the title and two European Cups with Nottingham Forest,” added Durban.

“The achievement was incredible. Peter was fantastic at spotting players, going to games in disguise or sneaking into training to watch behind a tree. They were brilliant.”