Joe Wildsmith was confirmed as a surprise exit from Derby County this summer after the club released their retained list.
Joe Wildsmith joined Derby County on a free transfer in 2022 and maintained a regular spot in the starting line-up, making a huge contribution to their promotion this season.
The goalkeeper racked up 20 clean sheets in 40 matches in League One, picking up the Golden Glove award and the Save of the Season.
Wildsmith has enjoyed an ‘unbelievable‘ campaign at Pride Park and was expected to be offered a new deal before his current one expired this summer.
However, the 28-year-old is one of six players set to leave on free transfers following Derby’s promotion.
Supporters were left surprised by the club’s decision to offload Wildsmith, leaving them with back-up Josh Vickers.
Joe Wildsmith has had a ‘crazy two years’ at Derby County
The shot-stopper took to social media to thank the club and the supporters ahead of his exit.
Writing on Instagram, Wildsmith said: “Thank you for everything @dcfcofficial – It’s been a crazy two years, and I’ve loved every minute of it. I came here to help this massive club get back to the Championship and leave having done that. What a way to go out.
“I’d like to thank all the players I had the pleasure of sharing the pitch and this experience with, and also the staff behind the scenes for all the work they do day in and day out!
“Last but definitely not least, I want to thank the clubs supporters for making me feel so welcome from the start, and being so kind to my family. The support you have shown me over the last two years has not gone unnoticed. Thank you!
“I wish the club all the best in the future! Up the Rams.”
Why are the Rams releasing the Golden Glove winner?
Derby County fans were left shocked and frustrated by the news that Joe Wildsmith would leave the club this summer.
The goalkeeper has been one of the Rams’ most important players this term and should have been given a chance in the Championship.
The only reasonable explanation is that he has had an attractive offer elsewhere, and perhaps will be joining a club towards the top of the second tier.
Fans will be hopeful that is why, and it doesn’t get to the start of next season and he is still unemployed.
Derby will now have to put in a lot of effort to find an even better replacement now though, with Vickers extremely unlikely to take the number one spot.
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