Derby County finished sixth last season and were defeated in the play-off semi-finals against Fulham, consigning them to their 11^th consecutive season at this level.

But ahead of yet another Championship campaign, this one feels very different.

Gary Rowett has gone, choosing to move to Stoke City instead, with the inexperienced but respected Frank Lampard assuming responsibility for the first-team.

This is a risky move by Derby given his lack of managerial experience, but he is highly regarded within the game and there are high hopes that he will achieve success at Pride Park.

He is yet to sink his teeth into the transfer market and Derby fans will certainly be hoping for several new arrivals before the season starts.

Their opening game will be against Reading – which is a winnable clash – and Lampard will already have an idea of the XI he wants starting for this match.

If this game was to take place now, this is the starting side that Lampard would surely put out.

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Veteran stopper Carson has been so reliable between the sticks and you can expect him to continue in that role.

Wisdom rejoined Derby on a permanent deal last summer and he was excellent - both in defence and going forward.

Lampard will surely be looking to sign another centre-half but Keogh, 31, may have to start the season at centre-half if he cannot secure his targets.

The biggest news for Derby fans this summer was that Davies penned a new deal.

The captain embodies passion, leadership, commitment and he is a superb defender at this level.

Is it time to give youngster Lowe his chance at left-back this season?

The 21-year-old has shown plenty of signs of promise but needs to steer clear of injury.

Experienced midfielder Huddlestone is important given his defensive contributions and his passing range.

Johnson is a battler in central midfield and he will probably keep his starting spot under the new boss.

Another youngster who could finally get his chance this season is Thomas, 19, who won Derby's Young Player of the Season accolade last term.

Will he stay or will he go? At the moment, Vydra remains a Derby player and to have the Czech Republic international - who won the Championship golden boot last year with 21 strikes in the league - would be a major bonus for Lampard's men.

On his day, Lawrence is unplayable. Lampard will be hoping that the Welshman can add consistency to his game.

After finishing last season in strong goal scoring form, Jerome is expected to start the season ahead of Dave Nugent up top.