Football Season Guide

Derby had a disappointing overall campaign last term. They were never in with a shout of the play-offs until just after the restart and were met with a season of disruption with Richard Keogh, Tom Lawrence and Mason Bennett involved in a drink driving episode that hit them on the field. Lawrence is the only one of the three that remains. Given the disruption, manager Phillip Cocu did not really get a chance to show what he can do despite the arrival of Wayne Rooney mid-season. Rooney has proved he is a class act and he will be vital to Derby's chances this season. Derby do not appear to have been very active in the transfer market. The return of defender Matt Clarke is important while signing an excellent keeper in David Marshall could also be crucial, the Rams struggling in that regard with Ben Hamer having a difficult time of it in the previous campaign. Derby did find their stride towards the end of last term and if they can add another player or two will feel they could force their way up there.