Derby County should leave the winter transfer window feeling very satisfied.
Derby County entered the new year as one of many clubs who felt a strong winter transfer window could put them straight into the play-off conversation. DCFC have maintained solid form since then to support their bid as they strengthen off the pitch.
Despite their success under John Eustace, there was a general feeling that the team needed work. Some areas needed strengthening and others needed improvement if the Rams players wanted to continue fighting in the top six.
There must have been some nervous fans when the clock struck 7pm on Monday evening. However, the permanent signing of left back Derry Murkin was confirmed shortly after the deadline, and two hours later the loan arrival of attacking midfielder Sammie Szmodics was announced.
Derby County’s deadline day activities rounded off a strong transfer window at Pride Park, and it leaves them in a great place to maintain their play-off bid.
Derby County’s signings mark improvements in outgoing players
Derby County FC News
Derby County ended the winter transfer window with five players signed and six moving on. Joining late additions to Murkin and Szmodics were Dion Sanderson, Oscar Fraulo and Jayden Banel.
In terms of departures, Ryan Nyambe, Corey Blackett-Taylor and Jake Rooney saw loans sanctioned. Ebou Adams, Curtis Nelson and Kayden Jackson completed permanent moves to Portsmouth, MK Dons and Bradford City respectively.
Among the exits were some solid servants and popular figures, namely Adams and Nelson. However, few would dispute the idea that all five of DCFC’s additions are upgrades for those who have moved on.
Perennial arrivals Murkin, Sanderson and Fraulo are all 26 years old or younger, meaning they are either reaching or have yet to reach their peak. Banel serves as new depth to the wing following the departure of Blackett-Taylor and Szmodics adds a potent threat for a championship goal to an already impressive attack.
Not only is the squad depth stronger, but so will the starting eleven. It marks a period of improvement at Pride Park and the last-gasp deal for Szmodics is a sign of real intent.
Sammie Szmodics’ championship record
The play-off battle ahead of Derby County
Derby County are seventh in the Championship table, just outside the play-offs. They are two points behind Wrexham, but with thirteen points in the last six games they are among the top of the league.
The race for the top six is becoming increasingly exciting. In addition to DCFC in good form are the aforementioned Wrexham, Millwall and Hull City. Ipswich Town have dropped points in their last two games but will be backed to bounce back, while it cannot be ruled out that Birmingham City and Southampton will rise up the table thanks to their improved form.
The general feeling will be that the Rams are above where they expected to be in the preseason. They were still battling relegation last year, but their recruitment has been ambitious and manager Eustace is emulating their upward trajectory both on and off the pitch.
With the help of some excellent winter activities, Derby County are a real play-off contender. They’ll have to deal with the pressure that brings, but there’s no hiding the fact that the Rams are in a great spot right now.
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