Paul Warne took the helm as Derby County’s manager in September 2022, marking a positive era under the ownership of David Clowes. The dynamic duo has seen great success, with a standout being the Rams’ rapid ascent back to the Championship after finishing second in League One in the 2023/24 season.
Despite a setback in the form of a 4-2 defeat against Blackburn Rovers early in the current season, Derby has shown promise by securing a 2-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers in October. Climbing to 12th place in the Championship, the team has showcased stellar performances from key players in the first nine fixtures of the 2024/25 season.
Among these stars, Curtis Nelson has shone brightly, garnering praise from Warne for his exceptional displays on the field. However, with Nelson’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, there is a looming risk of losing him for free.
EFL pundit Carlton Palmer has emphasized the significance of securing Nelson with a new contract, highlighting his pivotal role in the team’s defensive solidity and overall success. It is crucial for Derby to act swiftly to avoid disruptions and ensure Nelson remains a cornerstone of their lineup.
Additionally, Nelson is not the only player facing contract uncertainties, as several other key figures at Derby, including Kane Wilson, Liam Thompson, Sonny Bradley, Conor Washington, James Collins, Craig Forsyth, and Rohan Luthra, are in the final year of their contracts.
The message is clear for Warne and Clowes: prioritizing contract extensions for these players is essential to maintain the team’s stability and competitiveness moving forward. Failure to address these contract situations promptly could result in significant losses for Derby County in the upcoming summer.
Wilson continues to play a pivotal role in the club and deserves a new contract soon.
Forsyth, despite his age, can still contribute to Derby, albeit in a smaller capacity.
The future of the other players in Derbyshire is uncertain.
