New Derby County boss Nigel Pearson will begin life as the club’s manager with a home game against Brighton and Hove Albion on Saturday 6th August, in what looks to be an absolute barnstormer of a curtain raiser.
Pearson knows that his sole aim for the 2016/17 campaign will be promotion to the Premier League and the fixtures being released will no ramp up his determination to achieve his goals.
It is an intriguing opening day contest which pits the two sides that were defeated in last season’s play-off semi-finals together, in what promises to be an entertaining affair.
Between now and the first match Pearson will undoubtedly work hard to add a few new players to his already strong squad, as he looks to stamp his authority around the club.
Football League World writer Lee Clarke takes a look at three new signings who could star for Derby County in the opening game.
Grant Hanley
The Blackburn Rovers central defender has been linked with a move to the Rams in recent weeks and Derby are thought to be showing an interest.
Pearson will look to rectify some calamitous performances from last season’s defence and the Scotland international looks like a good fit for the Rams.
The 24-year-old is a no nonsense style central defender and he would add some desperately needed steel to the heart of defence, after some questionable performances from the Rams’ back four last season.
Ritchie De Laet
The Dutch right-back was a key component of Nigel Pearson’s Leicester City side which won the Championship in 2013/14 and a reunion could be on the cards.
The full-back achieved an unprecedented double promotion last season winning a Premier League winners medal with Leicester and also claiming a runners-up gong after finishing the season on loan with promoted Middlesbrough.
The 27-year-old is down the pecking order with the Foxes and Pearson could well snap up the full-back to add competition for the likes of Cyrus Christie next season.
Ross McCormack
Derby spent a small fortune on players last season and were unable to claim the ultimate prize of Premier League football, but owner Mel Morris could still bankroll another spending spree this summer.
If he does, Nigel Pearson could well have a look towards a top quality striker to take some of the pressure away from current talisman Chris Martin.
The Scottish striker has smashed 38 goals in 89 appearances since joining Fulham in 2014 and his ability to get himself into the penalty area would make him a really significant signing for the Rams.
Derby County fans, do you think these players can be big signings for you next season? Will you sign any of them? Would you welcome any of them? Who else do you want to sign? Let us know in the comments below!!!