Derby County might need to say farewell to a beloved player this summer, despite his impressive performance in one key aspect for the team. The upcoming Saturday holds immense significance for Derby’s history, as they have the chance to secure promotion to the Championship with a draw against Carlisle United.
Achieving this promotion without any summer expenditures would be a remarkable feat for Paul Warne, who aims to add another promotion to his successful track record, having achieved three with Rotherham. However, the confirmation of Derby’s league status for next season will prompt decisions regarding the futures of 12 first-team players whose contracts expire in June, including Conor Hourihane, Joe Wildsmith, James Collins, and Louie Sibley. While some players might be considered for retention in the Championship, it’s suggested that Martyn Waghorn should be let go.
Waghorn, whose contract at Pride Park ends this summer, returned for his second stint at the club with promising performances at the start of the season, scoring five goals in his first four matches, including a hat-trick against Peterborough. Expectations were high for the 34-year-old to replicate his past successes, but injuries hindered his progress. He missed 16 matches due to a calf injury and, since his return in late February, has yet to score, although he has only started one match during this period.
Despite limited starts in the league this season, Waghorn boasts an impressive goals-per-minute ratio, finding the net once every 125 minutes, according to Sofascore. This places him second in League One behind Portsmouth’s Kusini Yengi, who averages a goal every 97 minutes. While this statistic highlights Waghorn’s effectiveness in front of goal, it’s argued that it doesn’t justify extending his contract with Derby, especially considering the club’s aspirations to strengthen their attacking options and reduce the average age of the squad.
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