Scott Carson believes that Derby County proved doubters wrong this season.

Derby finished in sixth place after a season of fluctuating form which was only rescued by a strong end to the season. However, they weren't able to get past a strong Fulham side in the play-off semi-finals with a 2-1 loss on aggregate.

Carson played a key role because he didn't miss a game all season with Curtis Davies being the only other player in the team to match that feat.

This is what he had to say about Derby's season, according to the Derby Telegraph: "I think before the start of the season, we'd probably have been happy with reaching the play-offs."

"But a few weeks ago, everybody thought we'd folded, we'd packed in, we had no desire, we had no fight, and that we weren't going to get in the play-offs."

"We proved a lot of people wrong there and I think we put of lot of the doubts people had about us out the window."

The Verdict

Derby did well in Gary Rowett's first season in charge even if they did have periods of really poor form. Rowett's signings were smart and he didn't spend a lot, so this success is definitely sustainable.

The main issue will probably be holding on to Rowett who is likely to have impressed other clubs after such a promising campaign. They can't afford to lose him at such a key period in his time at the club because they will have to deal with another manager making their mark on the team.