Curtis Nelson 

Curtis Nelson, at the heart of Derby County's defence, is a seasoned centre back who brings an intriguing mix of defensive prowess and unexpected attacking flair to the Championship. Despite his age, he's still adept at progressive carrying, showing a willingness to drive the ball forward and initiate attacks, a trait that sets him apart from many of his peers in his role. His recovery skills are solid, often finding himself in the right place to snuff out danger, though his 1v1 defending leaves room for improvement. In the box, Nelson is a reliable presence, adept at keeping opponents at bay. His passing is competent, pushing the team forward with a decent success rate, though it's his goal threat that's surprisingly noteworthy for a centre back. This suggests he's a valuable asset during set pieces, adding an unexpected dimension to his game. While he's not the youngest on the field, Nelson's blend of experience and skill make him a crucial component of Derby's defensive setup.