Derby County defender Ashley Cole has sent a passionate message to his teammates on social media, after the Championship play-off semi-final victory over Leeds United last night.

Cole played the final few moments of the epic semi-final at Elland Road, after left-back Scott Malone was sent off in injury-time.

It was one of the greatest play-off semi-finals in recent memory, as Derby came from 2-0 down on aggregate with two goals from Jack Marriott, one from Mason Mount and penalty from Harry Wilson to stun the home crowd.

Frank Lampard's side made play-off history by becoming the first team to lose the first leg of a Championship play-off semi-final at home and still reach the final.

Cole had made eleven appearances for Derby since joining the club in January and sent a message to his teammates on social media after the game last night, congratulating them on reaching the final.

Derby will play Aston Villa in the Championship play-off final at Wembley later this month.

The Verdict:

Cole has only been at Derby for a few months, but he has clearly formed a close relationship with his teammates.

The left-back could have an important role to play in the final in a few weeks time and may start the game with Malone now suspended.

Cole knows exactly what it takes to win the big games at Wembley and will be an important player to have in the dressing room for the final.