- David Ozoh’s loan at Derby has ended
- Key role in Derby finishing just outside playoffs
- Aims for next season
Crystal Palace academy man David Ozoh has spent consecutive seasons on loan with Derby County in the Championship. He is now set to return to Palace, and ensured he departed the Rams with a farewell message via social media.
Ozoh’s loan has been a huge success, especially in this second season. Playing a key role for Derby, he came close to guiding the side to a play-off spot, which they missed out on on the final day of Championship action.
Fans of the midlands club have been keen to express their gratitude to Ozoh, and it appears as though he became a fan-favourite during his two year spell with the club.
Ozoh’s message to Derby fans
Via his social media accounts, Ozoh posted a farewell message to the supporters of the club where he has seen his first real breakthrough into the men’s game.
“Two unforgettable years as a Ram,” he began. “I’ve loved every single moment of it. I’m truly grateful for all the support and memories. This club will always hold a special place in my heart.”
The post was greeted by hoards of supporting messages, including pleas for Ozoh to return to the club next season.
Despite the wishes of Derby fans, Ozoh’s development has likely put him in a greater position to push for minutes with the Palace team next season. His all-action approach will likely suit the Premier League, and with Palace looking for midfield depth in the Summer, they may well have the perfect answer with his return to the club.
Ozoh’s time at Derby
In his first season, Ozoh played just 12 times for the Rams, scoring one Championship goal. An injury at the back end of the campaign saw him return to Palace, but he was sent back ahead of the 2025/26 season.
A much more productive spell this time around, the 20-year-old featured 35 times, scoring twice in the league. A brief injury spell over the Christmas period saw him miss a period of games, but upon his return to the side in January, Ozoh started 21 consecutive games.
Averaging 58 minutes per game, he was withdrawn on multiple occasions, but still played a key role in what was a successful campaign for Derby, despite missing out on the play offs.
Battling performances and moments of inspiration, including a winning goal against Norwich City, will be remembered by Rams fans.
At just twenty, he has a big future ahead of him and as loan spells go, this has certainly been a successful one for the Palace academy.
Ozoh will be aiming to come back to South London hoping to impress and stake a claim for a place in the squad next season.
