Football Season Guide

Derby suffered the agony of more play-off heartbreak, losing to Fulham in a two-legged semi-final. The second game at Craven Cottage proved to be Gary Rowett's final game in charge as he took the decision to cross the A50 to join Stoke City. The Rams have made a major appointment with former Chelsea and England midfielder Frank Lampard taking his first managerial role. It remains to be seen whether this is a success or not but it is certainly a bold approach. Lampard should be able to make some loan signings from his former club, and is indeed in talks to sign Kasey Palmer again, a player who spent time at Pride Park last time around. Lampard's transfer activity was not exactly immediate but he has really signed class late in July with Mason Mount, Harry Wilson, Florian Jozefzoon and Jack Marriott oozing quality, giving plenty of confidence that they can lead the Rams to success. Players last term really proved they were not quite good enough for promotion so they will need more than what they have at present. Scott Carson remains an outstanding presence in goal while Curtis Davies remains a solid defender to have. Lack of finances may hit Derby hard though. They desperately want to stick to FFP rules. That may mean selling Matej Vydra, who was last season's top scorer but sparingly used in the last few matches of the campaign and play-offs.