Two key Derby County players return with behind-closed-doors Everton friendly score confirmed

Derby County have been without Patrick Agyemang and Matt Clarke long-term, but they took significant steps on Thursday.

By James Ray · The 72

Published: Friday, 13 November 2026 at 8:25 AM

Key Things to Know

Patrick Agyemang and Matt Clarke made their injury returns in Derby County's 3-1 friendly defeat to Everton.
Lars-Jorgen Salvesen scored for Derby before Charly Alcaraz, Tyler Dibling, and Jonathan Nsangou sealed Everton's victory.
Agyemang had been sidelined since April with an Achilles rupture, while Clarke suffered a calf injury early this season.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Derby County duo Patrick Agyemang and Matt Clarke took key steps in their injury comebacks on Thursday by featuring in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Everton at Hill Dickinson Stadium. Everton won the match 3-1, recovering from an opening goal by Derby's Lars-Jorgen Salvesen with strikes from Charly Alcaraz, Tyler Dibling, and teenager Jonathan Nsangou.

Agyemang had been sidelined all season following an Achilles rupture in April, while Clarke has been out since suffering a calf injury against Lincoln City. The72's James Ray noted that while their return is a boost for manager John Eustace, the club will likely manage their progression cautiously before reintroducing them to Championship action.

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