Derby County boss John Eustace has confirmed that goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom will miss the rest of the season after suffering a fractured eye socket.
The Swede joined the Rams from Djurgaden in the summer to be their number one, and whilst he had some inconsistent moments, Zetterstrom has proven to be a key player, with his performances improving under Eustace.
| Jacob Widell Zetterstrom 24/25 Championship stats (Source:Â Sofascore) | ||||
| Appearances | 40 | |||
| Clean Sheets | 9 | |||
| Save Percentage | 68% | |||
| Goals Prevented | +1.7 | |||
| Penalties Saved | 2 from 3 | |||
So, it was a real surprise when he wasn’t in the XI as Derby fell to a crucial 1-0 defeat at home to Luton Town on Good Friday.
John Eustace shares Jacob Widell Zetterstrom injury update
Speaking to BBC Sport Derby after the game, Eustace explained that Zetterstrom is going to miss the final three games of the campaign as he has suffered a fractured eye socket.
Naturally, that will be a big blow for the team, with Josh Vickers stepping up to start in goal against the Hatters, but the 29-year-old was unable to keep Luton’s Millenic Alli out, with his 10th minute strike sealing a vital three points for Matt Bloomfield’s side.
In truth, the 29-year-old had little to do for much of the afternoon, with Luton rarely threatening after taking their early lead, particularly in the second half when it was one-way traffic as Derby pushed for an equaliser.
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At this stage of the season, it’s a test of character and mentality as much as talent, so Eustace will want his big players available and out on the pitch.
Clearly, Zetterstrom falls into that category, with his penalty save at Portsmouth last week showing how he relishes playing in this environment, in what has been a highly impressive debut season at Pride Park for the Swedish shot-stopper.
So, there’s no denying that this is a blow, and he joins a lengthy injury list at Pride Park, with Derby sure to be wondering what they have done to deserve such bad luck.
But, these things happen in football, and Eustace won’t be using it as an excuse as he will be convinced there is still enough talent in the group to stay in the league despite how tight it is at the bottom.
The defeat to Luton was hugely disappointing, but it’s now about bouncing back, with the Rams back in action on Easter Monday when they make the trip to The Hawthorns to take on play-off hopefuls West Brom.
It remains to be seen whether Eustace will make many changes to his XI for that one, but Vickers is sure to continue in goal in Zetterstrom’s absence.
Derby travel to Hull City after the Albion game, before finishing up with a fixture against Stoke City at home.
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