Chelsea defender Fikayo Tomori has admitted that he would consider returning to Derby County on loan next season, upon the expiry of his loan spell at Pride Park.

The 21-year-old has been a hugely influential figure in defender for Frank Lampard’s side this season, forming a solid defensive partnership with Richard Keogh which helped them become real promotion contenders.

But the Rams’ season ended in heartbreaking fashion this term, as they lost 2-1 to Aston Villa in the Sky Bet Championship play-off final at Wembley on Monday afternoon.

[ad_pod ]

After missing out on promotion to the Premier League, questions will be asked of whether Lampard will be able to re-sign his loanees next time around, after impressive individual campaigns in the second tier.

But speaking after the Rams’ disappointing loss, Tomori told BBC East Midlands Sport that he would be open to a return to Pride Park next season.

He said: "Of course - I have loved it. I grew so much as a player. Derby is such a great club.

"The manager has shown me a lot of confidence playing me in a lot of games. I have nothing but good words to say about Derby, the club, the fans and my team-mates."

Tomori has made just one senior appearance  for Chelsea since emerging through the youth ranks at Stamford Bridge, but he will be confident of forcing his way into the Blues first-team next year after an eye-catching season in the Championship.

The Verdict

I think it would be the best move for both parties if Tomori were to stay at Derby next season.

He’s playing his best football on loan with the Rams, and regular game time is what any young player needs at this stage of their career.

He has been terrific for Derby this season, but even despite their transfer ban, Chelsea already have a lot of talented defenders in their ranks.