Derby County have a big period of football ahead of them, with the Rams in contention for the play-offs and a Premier League return.  

Gary Rowett’s side have been in contention for much of the season, and although their form over recent months hasn’t been consistent, they’ve hung on and are still hoping for a Premier League return.

The Rams have been impressive on the whole this season, but there is little doubt that the squad Rowett has will need work in the summer.

A lot of Derby’s players are the wrong side of 30 and Rowett will be hoping to lower the average age of the group he has at the Pride Park Stadium.

One player who has been a regular in midfield for Derby this season is Tom Huddlestone, who Rowett brought to the club last summer.

The midfielder will be 32 in December and is certainly entering the latter stage of an impressive career.

With that in mind, we take a look at FOUR players we believe could be an upgrade on Huddlestone…

Clayton has endured a mixed season with Middlesbrough and it remains to be seen if he is taken forward into next season.

The ex-Leeds and Huddersfield midfielder has plenty of Championship experience and would be a good addition to Derby’s squad.

Rowett has previously tried to bring Kieftenbeld to Derby, but bizarre circumstances scuppered a deal.

The Derby boss clearly thinks highly of the midfielder and could look to once again bring him in from Birmingham.

The Sheffield Wednesday enforcer isn’t as good on the ball as Huddlestone, but alongside Joe Ledley, he would be perfect.

The duo would provide a solid base in midfield and allow Derby’s forwards more freedom.

Saiss has been magnificent for Wolves this season, helping them to dominate the Championship.

Next season, it remains to be seen whether Nuno Santo overhauls his squad or keeps faith with those that have put Wolves in the position they are.

If a new central midfielder is signed and Saiss falls down the pecking order, Derby should swoop.