Derby County can’t afford to let one of their star players depart this summer as Paul Warne faces a contract dilemma.
Derby County is on the verge of promotion to the Championship after a two-year stint in League One. They’re just four points away from securing their spot in the second tier, with confirmation possible this weekend if they beat Cambridge and Bolton falters against Port Vale.
With only ten days left in the season, Paul Warne must address the futures of several first-team players as their contracts expire in June. A total of 12 players, including top scorer James Collins, midfield maestro Conor Hourihane, and academy graduate Louie Sibley, are set to leave unless new deals are reached.
While letting Collins and Hourihane go may be understandable due to their age and wages, the same cannot be said for Sibley. He deserves a new contract as he has been an integral part of the team and has shown immense potential for the future.
Louie Sibley’s form deserves a new Derby County contract
Sibley is a graduate of Derby’s academy and when he broke onto the scene as an 18-year-old in the first-team, he was touted as the next big thing by many.
Scoring a hat-trick on his second senior start against Millwall in the Championship saw hype and expectations rise rapidly.
Sadly, like many youngsters who show promise from an early age, the hype surrounding Sibley has fallen by the wayside in recent years.
Despite initially featuring as an agile attacking midfielder, the 22-year-old has showcased his versatility by playing various positions, lately excelling as a left wing-back under Warne’s guidance.
Over the past nine games in this role, Sibley has contributed two goals and one assist, proving to be a dynamic threat down the left side with his adept dribbling and accurate crosses.
Journalist Leigh Curtis praised Sibley as “superb,” highlighting his impressive form that undoubtedly merits a contract renewal.
Derby County would be foolish to let Louie Sibley leave for nothing
Sibley’s youth and promise are invaluable to Warne, and with his contract near expiration, Derby is likely to extend it post-season.
Whether or not the Rams ascend to the Championship, securing the versatile talent’s contract early would be a smart financial move, given his ability to perform across various positions.
A player like Sibley, with 171 appearances for the club, would command a hefty fee in the transfer market. Derby would be wise not to let this academy gem leave for free.
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