The 1968–69 season was Derby County's 69th in the Football League and their 11th season in the Second Division. The team finished in 1st spot clinching the promotion for the First Division after being relegated since 16 years ago.
In his third season as chairman, Sam Longson and his second season manager Brian Clough clinched the influential signing of midfielder Dave Mackay from Tottenham Hotspur.[1] Also from Hartlepools United arrived young midfielder John McGovern being crucial during the second half of the season allowing MacKay to play as Full-back.[2] Meanwhile, assistant and former Goalkeeper Peter Taylor recommended the transfer in of Les Green to reinforce the squad.[3] After a last year failed bid, finally, Clough signed midfielder Willie Carlin[4] for a fee of £63,000.
The squad won the 1st spot in Second Division getting back to the First Division after being relegated in 1953. Meanwhile, in Football League Cup the team advanced to the quarterfinals only to lose in Replay against Swindon Town. In FA Cup The Rams were eliminated by Burnley in the third round.
Scottish Full-back Dave Mackay was named Football Writers' Association Footballer of the Year, the only Derby County player to earn the honour.[5]
Note: Flags indicate national team as defined under FIFA eligibility rules. Players may hold more than one non-FIFA nationality.