Ex-Striker Christie Criticizes Rams’ ‘Predictable’ Possession Play

Dominic Dietrich, Ed Dawes, and Malcolm Christie discussed the 1-1 draw against Preston. Malcolm Christie, a former striker for Derby County, characterized the Rams’ play in possession as predictable after their 1-1 draw with Preston on Saturday. At Deepdale, the visiting team recorded just one shot on target, which was Jerry Yates’ 29th-minute equaliser. Christie subsequently expressed doubts about his former club’s overall performances. Speaking on the BBC Podcast Rams Daily, Christie stated, “The performances that we’ve had and we’ve seen recently- it can worry you a little bit.” He further pondered, “If we have a defeat, what will that do to the confidence of the squad moving forward into these games coming thick and fast?” Christie also commented, “The quality in the final third, for me, needs improving.” Derby currently occupies the 11th position in the Championship standings, making them the highest-ranked among the three clubs promoted from League One last season. However, they have secured only one victory in their last seven fixtures, accumulating five draws during this period. Christie additionally remarked, “I think we can keep the ball better- the Rams leave you wanting more a little bit at times.” He then questioned, “Who makes us play? Who is our playmaker in that team? I was watching Ipswich, you see Sam Morsy in the midfield, I love that sort of player who wants the ball – give me the ball!” He concluded his assessment by stating, “We’re really good out of possession, but when we have the ball, we look very predictable.”