Derby's season started with one defeat and four draws in their first five games during which they scored 11 goals.

The attention was then quickly focused on improving the squad for 2001–02 in a bid to prevent another relegation battle.

Source: 2000–01 FA Premier League table Derby County's score comes first[2] Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.

Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules; some limited exceptions apply.