Derby County are beginning to look the part in the Championship this term but they’ll definitely need at least a few new additions in January if they’re avoid another recal down to League One.
Here are the Rams who gained promotion last season from League One and they will be hoping to remain in the top division. It is in the coming January window that changes are most vital.
Among these, of course, is Derby fan pundit Shaun Woodward who believes that the addition of a new forward should be priority number 1 on the clubs January wish list. Another out-and-out winger or perhaps a strike partner for Jerry Yates would be a huge help, he feels.
But Woodward claims Derby could have their sights set on the likes of Sheffield Wednesday’s Michael Smith. We know Smith will bring experience and size but along with a playstyle that would align perfectly with the way Yates plays.
Warnes has identified Smith as a previous transfer target but the player is not on the club’s radar at this point. BUT THAT COULD CHANGE AS THE FEBRUARY 3 DEADLINE APPROACHES.
Hear me out, January is crucial for mid-table Derby County and their Championship aspirations.
It could hardly have been the best time for anyone to begin their season, but early progress from Derby has established a four-point buffer of comfort above the bottom three and at this stage they need plenty of those not that anybody is ever in any doubt about which route this competition campaign will be taking.
In the transfer market, other teams are also going to fight for their own situations and any possible strategic investment in January can even ensure they will survive.
It is safe to say Derby may never stump up the money for a specific deal done — so even if Warne’s could be a decent temporary home for Smith given their history together, it likely would not be long-term.
