Derby County’s signing of Craig Bryson from Scottish Premiership side Kilmarnock in the summer of 2011 was initially a low-key move. Fast forward 13 years, and the Scottish midfielder has become a modern-day club legend, amassing 276 appearances for the Rams before departing in 2019.

At just £350,000, with an additional £100,000 tied to appearance bonuses, Bryson proved to be an incredible bargain. He played a crucial role under several managers, including Steve McLaren, Paul Clement, Darren Wassall, and Frank Lampard, in Derby’s quest for Premier League promotion.

Bryson’s impact went beyond the promotion battles, providing Derby fans with some of their most memorable moments of the 2010s through pivotal performances and iconic goals.

Nigel Clough, who brought Bryson to Pride Park as his third signing of the 2011/12 season, sought to add grit to Derby’s midfield. In his debut season, Bryson won Derby’s Player of the Season award, contributing six goals and six assists in the Championship and helping the team achieve a 12th-place finish.

Shaun Woodward, FLW’s Derby Fan Pundit, regards Bryson as one of Derby’s greatest modern-era signings. He praised Bryson for his immense value and impact, noting his nearly 300 appearances, numerous goals, and significant contributions to the team. Bryson was named Derby’s Player of the Year twice and earned a spot in the Championship Team of the Year.

Bryson’s tenure at Derby was marked by memorable moments, including a decisive goal against Nottingham Forest and a hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Millwall. His memorable hat-trick against Forest made him the first Derby player since Steve Bloomer in 1898 to achieve such a feat in the East Midlands Derby.

Shaun Woodward highlighted Bryson’s exceptional value, asserting that his success demonstrates that top-quality players can be acquired without spending millions. For many Derby fans, Bryson remains one of the club’s best-ever signings.