Paul Warne delivers heartfelt farewell message to 23-year-old talent from Derby County.
Paul Warne bids an emotional farewell to one of his players from Derby County. Derby secured their promotion back to the Championship by defeating Carlisle United 2-0 at Pride Park last Saturday. After a two-season absence, The Rams returned to the second tier after earning 92 points to secure second place. With 31,000 fans present to cheer them on, it was a poignant moment for some players bidding adieu.
Max Bird, who scored the opening goal with a splendid left-footed strike, played his final match in a Derby shirt. Bird, who made his debut for Derby at the age of 16, has been a constant presence since then, making 200 appearances for the club. Despite being only 23, he had a productive season in League One, scoring six goals and providing seven assists from midfield.
His excellent form led Bristol City to sign him during the January transfer window, but he returned to Derby on loan for the rest of the season. Following his last game for the club, manager Paul Warne shared a heartfelt goodbye message, expressing his pride and admiration for Bird’s contributions.
“I’m really pleased for Birdy. He’s a wonderful person, a fantastic young man who is determined to succeed,” Warne commented. “There have always been rumors about certain players leaving since I’ve been here, and with a heavy heart, I knew he would be playing elsewhere next season. Sometimes, after spending so much time at a club, you need to spread your wings and move on. It was a tough decision because Tommo [another player] has been performing really well, but Birdy trained exceptionally and showed great potential in front of goal.”
Warne added, “I’m quite emotional, and I did feel a bit teary inside when he scored. I understand how much it means to him, and it’s important to conclude his time at the club with something memorable. When he was substituted, I expressed how proud I was of him. It was a fitting conclusion – 200 games, a brilliant goal, and it validated my decision, which makes me feel proud.”
