Conor Hourihane acknowledges that Derby County’s inaugural season in League One fell short of expectations, deeming it a ‘failure’. However, their triumphant return to the Championship in their second attempt adds a sweeter taste to their achievements. The Rams clinched second place with an impressive 92-point haul, a significant improvement from their previous season’s seventh-place finish. Hourihane, whose contract is due for renewal, expressed satisfaction in contributing to the team’s turnaround.

Reflecting on the season, Hourihane emphasized the disappointment of missing out on the playoffs last year and the subsequent determination to secure promotion this season. He recognized the coaching staff’s emphasis on statistical targets but emphasized that the players’ primary focus remained on achieving promotion. He acknowledged last season’s shortcomings, stressing that finishing seventh was unacceptable for a club of Derby’s stature. However, he highlighted the team’s resolve in flipping the situation and securing a top-two finish this season.

Derby County’s return to the Championship marks a significant milestone, celebrated in a special souvenir edition of the Derby Telegraph. This edition chronicles the club’s journey from adversity to triumph, capturing the highs and lows of the season, culminating in the jubilant scenes at Pride Park after their promotion-clinching victory against Carlisle United.

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