Emotional Journey: Paul Warne Reflects on Derby County Championship Promotion

Manager Paul Warne expressed that Derby County return to the Championship has left him emotionally drained. The team secured promotion with a stunning goal from Max Bird and James Collins’ 19th goal of the season against Carlisle at Pride Park. This achievement comes just two seasons after Derby dropped out of the Championship while in administration. Warne described his feelings as being between relief and exhaustion despite his wife’s expectation of more celebratory emotions.

This promotion marks Warne fourth as a League One head coach having previously achieved similar success with Rotherham. For Derby, this promotion is significant as it’s only their second in 27 years and the first one secured at their Pride Park home. Warne emphasized the enormity of restoring Derby to the Championship and delivering success for owner David Clowes who rescued the club from administration in 2022.

He mentioned the overwhelming feeling of gratitude towards Clowes and the satisfaction of seeing him happy after the game. Warne joked about the chaotic scenes in the dressing room after the match and looked forward to celebrating at home with his dog. The promotion is seen as closing a difficult chapter for Derby with owner Clowes praised for his investment and supporters rewarded for their loyalty. Overall, the return to the Championship is viewed as a fresh start for the club and its fans.