Nathaniel Mendez-Laing reacts to Derby County’s 1-0 win v Cambridge United | OneFootball

Derby County climbed into the League One play-off places with a 1-0 win over Cambridge United on Friday evening.

Lewis Dobbin netted the only goal of the game for the Rams in the second period, planting home a close range header after Nathaniel Mendez-Laing cut the ball across from Korey Smith’s pass down the right flank.

The Rams are unbeaten in their last ten third tier encounters, with Paul Warne’s, somewhat enforced, move to a four at the back system working a treat.

The system is mainly in place to hide the Rams’ limited defensive options, but has enabled them to play with an additional attacking player.

Mendez-Laing is far too good for League One level but has had his ups and downs off the pitch in recent seasons.

The 30-year-old took to Instagram to reflect on the important victory over the U’s.

“BIG W!

“Congratulations @lewisdobbin10 on your first league goal.

“Happy new year rams.

“Glory to god always.”

🔗 Instagram

Derby have players on their books that the rest of the division will fear, especially if they do finish in the top six, Mendez-Laing is one of them and he will continue to have a key role in the success of their campaign.

The Verdict

Quiz: Have any of these 25 ex-Derby County players ever played for a Yorkshire based team?

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1. Richard Keogh

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As things stand, it feels like the Rams are the most reliable team for consistency below the high flying trio of Sheffield Wednesday, Ipswich Town and Plymouth Argyle, and some shrewd January additions could make them ones to watch in the coming months.

Derby have the chance to really assert themselves in the promotion mix when they take on lowly Accrington Stanley and Cheltenham Town in their next two league encounters, with potentially some fresh faces to add into the first team picture.

Mendez-Laing is not a player that naturally fits into a Paul Warne team, but the former Rotherham United manager is adapting to the squad at his disposal very well and would back his ability in a play-off situation.