Derby County went all out during the summer transfer window to strengthen their squad, focusing particularly on reinforcing their defense. Although their defensive options were already solid, manager Paul Warne wanted to add more depth to the backline.
The team secured a loan deal for Liverpool’s Nat Phillips, who will now compete with Eiran Cashin, Curtis Nelson, Sonny Bradley, and Jake Rooney for a spot in the starting lineup, with Cashin and Nelson currently being preferred choices.
While several other players were linked with the Rams, some ended up signing elsewhere, and certain rumors never materialized. One such player was Swedish defender Gustaf Lagerbielke, who was rumored to be seeking more playing time after struggling at Celtic. However, after moving to FC Twente in the Netherlands, Lagerbielke continues to face game time challenges.
Despite joining Derby County at the end of August, Lagerbielke, the rumored summer target, is yet to make his debut for the club, appearing as an unused substitute in all four games played so far.
Speculations suggest that if Lagerbielke had chosen Derby County over FC Twente, he might have had more chances to play regularly. However, considering that Phillips has not been able to displace Cashin or Nelson from the starting lineup, Lagerbielke may have faced a similar situation.
Nevertheless, Phillips has managed to feature off the bench and is actively pushing for a starting position, indicating that he could potentially earn a spot in the starting XI in the future.
During the early stages of the season, Derby County has witnessed several of their summer signings making an impact. Goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom is proving to be a strong presence in goal, while Ebou Adams continues to impress after a successful loan spell. Midfielders Kenzo Goudmijn, David Ozoh, and Kayden Jackson have all settled in well, alongside new recruits Ben Osborn and Jerry Yates, who have secured starting roles. Competition for places is fierce as players like Phillips and Marcus Harness fight for regular starts.