Derby County have endured a dismal start to the season, with the Rams currently bottom of the Championship and without a permanent manager.

The East Midlands outfit are five points from safety after 14 games, so there is understandable concern at what's gone on this season.

Clearly, the January window is going to be huge for whoever is in charge, and the The Sunday Mirror (29/11, p72) have claimed that new technical director Steve McClaren is looking to bring Matty Longstaff to the club.

The midfielder is struggling for minutes at Newcastle right now, with a potential loan switch suggested.

Here we outline THREE reasons why Derby should do all they can to finalise a deal for the 20-year-old...

They need another midfielder

Firstly, it's a position that the Rams simply have to strengthen in the window.

There hasn't been a settled midfield pairing all season, with Wayne Rooney coming in and out of that position, and nobody really establishing themselves as the main man in the middle.

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He has quality

Most importantly, Longstaff is a very good player and someone who will improve Derby.

He made a huge impression having broken into the Magpies XI, impressing with his energy, desire and ability on the ball. He would add drive to the Rams team, and has the potential to star in the Championship.

He will be able to handle the pressure

As the weeks pass, Derby's situation is becoming increasingly desperate.

So, the pressure is building. Even without fans at the stadium, the players will know they are underachieving and it's simply not on.

That requires big characters to stand up, but it won't faze Longstaff. The Newcastle fan base are also demanding, so it's something he can thrive under.