Derby County’s Summer Shake-Up: What to Expect from Retained Players and Potential Signings

Derby County will be turning their attentions to their summer plans following the conclusion of the 2023/24 League One campaign.

Derby County had a campaign to remember this season, overcoming injury struggles and a strict business plan to achieve automatic promotion on the final day in order to return to the Championship at just the second time of asking.

Paul Warne gained his fourth promotion from the third tier, and his first with the Rams, as he led his side to a 2nd place finish despite a turbulent mid-season spell.

After securing a top-two spot, Derby County rarely fell out of contention. They achieved a record points tally of 92, surpassing their previous best of 85 in the 2013/14 Championship campaign. Notably, they set a new record with 13 away league wins and boasted the EFL’s best defensive record, conceding just 37 goals in 46 matches.Now, focus shifts to summer plans, including decisions on out-of-contract players. One notable departure is Max Bird, an academy graduate who scored the crucial opener in their promotion-clinching victory over Carlisle United. Despite his move to Bristol City in January, Bird returned on loan, tallying 200 appearances for Derby since his debut in 2017. He could face Derby next season if the sides meet in the second tier.

Bird scored 10 goals and registered 17 assists during his time with the Rams and he will no doubt prove a tidy addition for the Robins in the near future. The end of his loan and subsequent return to Ashton Gate will be confirmed.

Players to be released

Martyn Waghorn, who rejoined Derby County on a one-year deal at the start of the season, alongside Craig Forsyth, faces the end of their contracts at ages 34 and 35, potentially marking their final appearances for the club.

Youngster Darren Robinson’s inability to break into the first team may lead him to pursue opportunities elsewhere.

Fringe player Kwaku Oduroh and third-choice goalkeeper Scott Loach are likely to depart.

Captain Conor Hourihane, expressing interest in coaching, may also part ways with the club after spending the latter part of the season on the bench.

Loanees Ebou Adams and Tyreece John-Jules are set to return to Cardiff City and Arsenal, respectively, although discussions are ongoing for Derby County to secure Adams on a permanent basis.

Potential extensions

Louie Sibley and Liam Thompson, both of whom came through the Rams’ youth ranks, had strong ends to the season and will have certainly put themselves in the window for a new deal.

Dwight Gayle, signed on a short-term deal to address an injury crisis, made a significant impact before getting injured. His display of quality from a higher division could lead to a new deal with Derby County, especially since he returned to training before the end of the campaign.

James Collins, Derby County’s leading goal-scorer with 19 goals across all competitions, and Korey Smith, who showcased strong performances towards the end of the season, are likely to receive contract offers due to their contributions.

The club has an option for an additional year in Tom Barkhuizen’s contract, given his consistent role as a valuable squad player since joining in 2022.

Joe Wildsmith, recipient of League One’s Golden Glove award, is expected to be offered new terms post-promotion. His decision, previously delayed due to interest from higher divisions, may now be more straightforward.

GET MORE NEWS HERE