2010-11 Championship Preview: Derby County

Last updated : 22 July 2010 By Ian Hayes & Blades-Mad


















Last season was not one that will live long in the memories of Rams fans. The promised improvement was eventually achieved, if only by the odd point or so. Improvement on the pitch was barely noticeable from the previous couple of seasons.

Fans became increasingly frustrated as the Rams struggled at the lower end of the table instead of the promised mid-table obscurity. Nigel Clough indeed at one point last season stated we could reach the top six, but injuries put paid to any thought of the play-offs and it was more likely we would be relegated than promoted.

The American owners of the Rams were also looking to reduce the wage bill at Pride Park last season, which will be continuing this season. However the CEO has indicated we do have funds if needed by Clough should the right player(s) become available!

The fans are slowly coming around to the lower league bargain buys Nigel Clough has brought to the club. It remains to be seen if these will integrate into the side and further improve the squad this season.

On paper Derby have a reasonable squad, but as Brian Clough once said, we play on grass, not paper..!

We are promised improvement and have a directorship at the club which is committed to getting the finances at the club in the black, fans are not sure if the two go hand in hand but seem willing to allow Nigel Clough another full season to prove he is a manager that can take the Rams forward.

When Do We Meet?
Bramall Lane: 11 September 2010
Pride Park: 26 February 2011

Previous Positions:
2007-08: 20th (PL)
2008-09: 18th
2009-10: 14th

Odds
Promotion: 12/1
Relegation: 13/2

Blades-Mad Predicted Finish: 16th