The automatic promotion hopes of Derby County were over almost as quickly as they had begun, with second place slipping away from Gary Rowett’s men following a dismal run of form.
Now battling to hold onto a play-off spot with their poor run showing no signs of coming to an end, the former Birmingham City gaffer needs a miracle if he is to hold off the likes of Bristol City, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United for one of the final two top six spots.
Promotion appears unlikely, with an extremely strong play-off field expected, and Rowett could spend the summer preparing for life in the second tier once more.
This trio could certainly be on his summer shopping list to ensure a place in the top two next year if the Premier League eludes them for another term…
The Canadian winger has rediscovered his electric form with Cardiff City this season, with the Bluebirds looking destined for the Premier League following a wonderful run that has seen them put daylight between themselves and the chasing pack.
Hoilett must be accredited with a large chunk of the club’s success, with his double figures assist tally contributing to the Welsh side’s unexpected rise to prominence.
The player is out of contract in the summer and a new deal with Neil Warnock’s side is yet to be agreed, and Rowett will surely be aware of the 27-year-old’s talents and contract status.
The Rams need a winger, and Hoilett is perfect.
Derby love an out of contract, experienced Premier League star, and Morrison could be the latest man to join Rowett’s revolution at Pride Park.
The 31-year-old is set to leave West Brom when his contract expires and could come up against the relegation threatened Baggies next season should he drop to the second tier with the Rams.
Tom Huddlestone has proven a shrewd addition since his switch from relegated Hull City in the summer, and Morrison could prove to be an equally adept signing who would add a lot to the middle of the park in the East Midlands.
The 30-year-old has been a mainstay with the Cherries during their rise through the divisions to the Premier League, but his long association with the south coast side could be approaching its close with his contract set to expire in the summer.
A quality winger with top flight ilk, Pugh would be a wonderful addition to the squad at Pride Park, and his ability to deliver would certainly benefit the likes of Matej Vydra and Cameron Jerome in the eighteen-year box.
Pugh’s signing could allow Tom Lawrence to play down the middle more often which is arguably where he is most effective, and Rowett may finally be able to get the best out of his big money signing by picking up Pugh in the summer.
Rams fans, thoughts?