Derby County boss Paul Warne has asked for more signings following an injury crisis when speaking to BBC Radio Derby.
After an underwhelming start to the new season and injuries starting to pile up, Warne has called for his squad to be strengthened in three positions in particular, with the transfer deadline fast approaching.
Triple Blow?
The Rams were dealt a trio of injuries during their 2-1 defeat to Oxford United last Tuesday, with midfielder Max Bird and wingbacks Joe Ward and Kane Wilson all expected to miss “at least” two months of play.
The unfortunate injuries come at a time with the transfer window open, with Warne crying out for replacement signings in those positions.
Ward was the first to fall midway through the first half at the Pride Park Stadium, with his substitute Wilson and impressive teammate Bird finishing the match, however, picking up injuries that will sideline them.
Bounce Back
Following a poor start which saw three defeats in all competitions during their first four games, the Rams got their first home win of the campaign with a 1-0 victory over Fleetwood Town last weekend. Taking them to a respectable 10th place in League One after narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season, Derby will be looking to add to the winning squad which was missing the three regular contributors.
What’s Been Said:
Speaking after the win to BBC Radio Derby, Warne spoke about the loss of his injured players and where in the squad he would like to strengthen.
“I feel for Max more than anyone because he was the fittest person pre-season, our best performer this season.
“I asked the lads to play with character and I think they dedicated the win to Birdy because it’s a massive blow, all three of them going.
“Hopefully we’ll have that midfielder in soon, [and] try and get another one.
“We need another right wing-back, which is disappointing, so we’re trying to get that and we still need something else up top.
“The team is giving their all and I’m not criticising it, but if I’m critiquing it, it’s not a top-three team, that is my honest truth, I don’t think it’s a top-three team.”
Writer’s View
Warne has been very vocal about wanting to add more signings to his team and may need to be more than ever after the injuries they suffered against Oxford. With a double blow at ring wing-back and a midfielder already lined up, also wanting somebody to compete up top might be asking too much of the board.
With the transfer window closing in a little over a week, Derby will have to act fast if they want to fix their problems and I see it being difficult.
