Ranking the 7 best players to ever play for both Nottingham Forest and Derby County

The seven best players to have played for both Nottingham Forest and Derby County are:

1. Peter Shilton – Renowned goalkeeper with a legendary career.
2. Dean Saunders – Talented forward known for his goal-scoring ability.
3. Archie Gemmill – Midfielder famous for his skill and creativity.
4. John Robertson – Winger celebrated for his contributions to Forest’s success.
5. Colin Todd – Solid defender with a strong presence at the back.
6. John McGovern – Key midfielder in Forest’s golden era.
7. Kris Commons – Versatile player who made significant impacts at both clubs.

These players have left a lasting legacy in the history of both teams.

Ranking the 7 Best Players to Ever Play for Both Nottingham Forest and Derby County

The East Midlands derby between Nottingham Forest and Derby County is one of the most storied rivalries in English football. Over the years, numerous players have crossed the divide between these two clubs, leaving their mark on both sides. Here, we rank the seven best players to have played for both Nottingham Forest and Derby County, considering their contributions, skills, and impact on the clubs.

1. Peter Shilton

• Position: Goalkeeper
• Years Active: 1966-1997
• Clubs: Nottingham Forest (1977-1982), Derby County (1987-1992)

Peter Shilton is widely regarded as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. His time at Nottingham Forest was particularly notable, as he played a crucial role in the club’s back-to-back European Cup victories in 1979 and 1980. Shilton’s commanding presence, shot-stopping ability, and leadership made him a key figure in Forest’s success during the late 1970s.

After a successful stint at Forest, Shilton moved to Derby County, where he continued to showcase his exceptional skills. He made 175 appearances for the Rams, further solidifying his legacy as a top goalkeeper in English football.

2. Dean Saunders

• Position: Forward
• Years Active: 1982-2001
• Clubs: Derby County (1989-1991), Nottingham Forest (1996-1997)

Dean Saunders was known for his pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability. He had a prolific spell at Derby County, where he scored 17 goals in the 1988-89 season, earning a move to Liverpool for a then-record fee. His time at Nottingham Forest was shorter, but he still made an impact, contributing five goals during his tenure.

Saunders’ ability to perform at the highest level, combined with his experience in the Premier League, made him a valuable asset for both clubs.

3. Archie Gemmill

• Position: Midfielder
• Years Active: 1967-1985
• Clubs: Derby County (1967-1974), Nottingham Forest (1977-1982)

Archie Gemmill is best remembered for his creativity and technical skills in midfield. He was instrumental in Derby County’s success during the early 1970s, helping the Rams secure the First Division title in 1972. His time at Nottingham Forest saw him contribute to the club’s European triumphs, showcasing his ability to perform on the biggest stage.

Gemmill’s famous goal for Scotland in the 1978 World Cup further cemented his status as a legendary figure in football.

4. John Robertson

• Position: Winger
• Years Active: 1969-1983
• Clubs: Nottingham Forest (1969-1981), Derby County (1981-1983)

John Robertson is often regarded as one of Nottingham Forest’s greatest players. His exceptional dribbling skills and creativity on the wing were pivotal in Forest’s success during the late 1970s. Robertson played a key role in both European Cup victories, providing crucial assists and scoring important goals.

After leaving Forest, Robertson had a less impactful spell at Derby County, but his contributions to Forest’s legacy cannot be overstated.

5. Colin Todd

• Position: Defender
• Years Active: 1968-1982
• Clubs: Derby County (1971-1978), Nottingham Forest (1982-1984)

Colin Todd was a stalwart in defense for both clubs. He was part of Derby County’s title-winning teams in 1972 and 1975, earning recognition as one of the best defenders of his era. Todd’s leadership and defensive skills were crucial in maintaining a solid backline.

His time at Nottingham Forest came later in his career, but he continued to demonstrate the qualities that made him a fan favorite at Derby.

6. John McGovern

• Position: Midfielder
• Years Active: 1969-1982
• Clubs: Derby County (1975-1977), Nottingham Forest (1977-1982)

John McGovern was the heartbeat of Nottingham Forest’s midfield during their golden era. As captain, he led the team to back-to-back European Cup victories, showcasing his leadership and work ethic. McGovern’s time at Derby County was shorter, but he was a key player in the Rams’ setup before joining Forest.

His contributions to both clubs highlight his importance in English football during the 1970s.

7. Kris Commons

• Position: Midfielder
• Years Active: 2004-2017
• Clubs: Nottingham Forest (2004-2008), Derby County (2008-2011)

Kris Commons is a more modern example of a player who made significant contributions to both clubs. He was a fan favorite at Nottingham Forest, scoring 44 goals during his time there and helping the team achieve promotion back to the Championship. His move to Derby County saw him continue to impress, scoring 29 goals and becoming a key player for the Rams.

Commons’ versatility and ability to perform in crucial moments make him a worthy inclusion on this list.

Conclusion

The players listed above have not only excelled individually but have also contributed significantly to the rich histories of both Nottingham Forest and Derby County. Their legacies continue to resonate with fans, and their achievements on the pitch have left an indelible mark on the rivalry between these two clubs. As the East Midlands derby continues to captivate football fans, the memories of these seven players will always be cherished.Bookmark messageCopy messageExport