Derby County boss Wayne Rooney has been through what has arguably been one of the most testing years of his football career as 2021 comes towards its end. 

The Rams only just staved off the threat of relegation last season and are now currently staring down the barrel of one in present day after being inflicted by a points deduction that has left them rooted bottom of the Sky Bet Championship table.

Add to the fact that the troubled Midlands side are no closer to finding a new owner and things appear only likely to get worse for the former Manchester United and England striker at Pride Park.

With January also appearing on the horizon, there is also various doubts being placed over the futures of some of the club's best players, with the window soon to open.

Here, we take you through TWO big transfer decisions that Wayne Rooney at Derby County could need to make in the next few weeks...

Sell Tom Lawrence? 

The Derby skipper is easily the most valuable player within the club's current squad and could well be one that they cash in on when the window opens.

There has already been reported interest from other clubs in his services, which has led to the player himself even making a statement on his future.

The reality is however that Derby need to make back some of the money that is due to be paid to various parties, so therefore they could be forced to sell some of their best assets.

Lawrence unfortunately falls into this category and appears one of the most likely to leave at present.

Sell Kelle Roos?

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Another player whose long term future at Pride Park appears very much in doubt, Roos could well move on in January if the right offer is forthcoming.

Having been linked with a number of other English sides recently, Derby could well cash in on the Dutchman who has just over half a year left to run on his contract with the club.

Given the form of Ryan Allsop between the sticks, the Rams could be more inclined to sell Roos than perhaps they would have been before.

Whatever happens it appears likely that the keeper will depart the club no matter what in the new year given the current circumstances.