Leon Osman is warmly remembered by Everton fans for his contributions during their successful years under David Moyes, particularly in the late 2000s. However, it was his loan stint at Derby County that jumpstarted his career, playing a crucial role in the Rams’ survival in 2004. Osman, originally from Wigan, joined Everton as a teenager in 1997 but initially struggled and went on loan to Carlisle United and Derby. He eventually established himself at Everton in 2004-05, enjoying a successful career with 433 appearances, 57 goals, and two England caps in 2012 and 2013. Derby missed a chance to secure him permanently, which could have altered his career trajectory significantly.
Leon Osman was crucial to Derby County’s First Division survival
The Everton loanee joined the Rams having made just seven appearances for Everton alongside an unremarkable loan spell at fourth-tier outfit Carlisle the season before, and there was likely a huge question mark over the influence he would have had at the club, who were firmly embroiled in a relegation scrap.
Making his debut in a 2-0 win over Sheffield United, Osman didn’t miss a minute at Pride Park after his first start and with a late equaliser at home to Cardiff in his third appearance, he quickly became a fan favourite.
| Leon Osman – Derby County goals | Minute | Score at time of goal | Result | Points gained |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cardiff City – February 6, 2004 | 90 | 2-2 | 2-2 | 1 |
| Crystal Palace – February 20, 2004 | 76 | 2-1 | 2-1 | 2 |
| Bradford City – April 11, 2004 | 36 | 1-0 | 3-2 | 2 |
Osman’s late goal in Derby’s next home game against Crystal Palace solidified his position as a key player, earning the team crucial points in just five matches. This momentum propelled the Rams towards a strong survival effort.
In another pivotal moment, Osman’s opening goal against Bradford City secured a vital 3-2 win, bringing Derby within one point of Gillingham and Burnley with only five games remaining.
Although Osman was eventually recalled, his contributions were instrumental as Derby narrowly avoided relegation by a single point, condemning Walsall to the third tier.
Derby County missed out on signing Leon Osman on a permanent basis
The Burton Mail reported in 2004 that Derby County made a £400,000 bid to sign Osman permanently after his loan spell, which Everton turned down due to his significant contributions for them. Derby manager Craig Burley, facing interest from Nottingham Forest, couldn’t secure Osman as Everton’s best player towards the end of the season. Instead, Derby signed Morten Bisgaard, while Osman remains fondly remembered for his impact despite the unsuccessful bid.
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