Before the season had begun, there was a huge amount of optimism flowing around the iPro Stadium, following the arrival of Nigel Pearson in late May.

Derby fans were hugely optimistic and positive about the former Leicester boss' arrival, with many excited about the work he did at the King Power Stadium, where he constructed a squad that consisted of Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez, and led them to promotion from the second tier in the 13/14 campaign.

Fast forward four months, that is a completely different story.

With the Rams lying in a dismal 22nd place, they have only managed to pick up one win in nine games, whilst drawing three times and losing a dreadful five teams.

For a squad that possesses so much quality, through the likes of Tom Ince, Will Hughes and Matej Vydra, the start of Derby's season has been too much for some to handle, with the iPro faithful already calling for Pearson's head.

With that being said, here, FLW writer George Harbey identifies THREE potential replacements, that would be perfect to lift the Rams up, and kickstart their season...

Steve Bruce

After suddenly walking out on Hull City just days before the beginning of their Premier League campaign, the 55-year-old now finds himself in need of a club.

The former Manchester United defender has had an exceptional amount of success at Championship level, as well as guiding the Tigers to their second promotion under Bruce last term, he has also took Birmingham City to the top flight twice too.

Although Bruce may not want to rush straight back into a job, surely if a sleeping giant like Derby came knocking, he would jump at the chance of managing the Rams.

Mark Hughes

With Stoke City failing to find a win six games into the 2016/17 Premier League campaign, the Welshman could well be on his way out of the bet365 Stadium, with Derby looking like a perfect destination for the 52- year-old.

The Potters have only managed to gain two points thus far this season, drawing twice and losing four times, with the pressure heating up for Hughes.

A manager of Hughes' expertise would be a huge asset for the Rams, and with Derby's ever growing funds, they are more than capable of luring "Sparky" to the iPro Stadium

Oscar Garcia

The Spaniard would be yet another brilliant appointment for the Derbyshire club.

Garcia now finds himself as head coach at Red Bull Salzburg, however a big club like Derby would definitely be enough to lure him away from the Austrian outfit.

The 43-year-old led Brighton and Hove Albion to the play-offs in the 2013/14 campaign, where he got his team playing perhaps the best football in the division, reminiscent of his playing days at Barcelona, which would be influential for the likes of talismen Tom Ince and Johnny Russell.

So...What do you think Derby fans? Would you agree with these three suggestions? Would you give Nigel Pearson more time? Who else would you like to see replace him if he gets the sack? Leave your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below!