Derby County goalkeeper Ryan Allsop wants to remain at Pride Park beyond the summer despite his side's relegation to the third tier, speaking to the BBC as he looked to clarify his stance.

The 29-year-old was brought in as one of Wayne Rooney's top targets during the summer despite the fact he already had the likes of David Marshall and Kelle Roos at his disposal - and spent much of the early stages of his career in the East Midlands behind the latter in the pecking order.

Since the start of December though, he has been one of the first names on the teamsheet, establishing himself as a reasonably reliable asset between the sticks and performing above many peoples' expectations following his release from Wycombe Wanderers last summer.

Due to the Rams' embargo restrictions though, he was only able to sign a one-year deal following his arrival in August and this leaves him in grave danger of departing the East Midlands outfit this summer.

Though he may be expected to be one of the first names to be offered fresh terms at the club, a takeover of the club is not yet complete and until that happens, they may not be able to tie Allsop down to a new deal.

This would be a considerable blow for Rooney who has seen the 29-year-old become an integral figure at the club in recent months - but the player is committed to the cause despite facing the reality of playing League One football next season.

Speaking to the BBC, he said he wants to sign a fresh agreement in the summer, adding: "I've loved my time here and I don't want that to end."

The Verdict:

This is a real show of commitment by the goalkeeper so he has to be commended for that - because he isn't likely to be short of interest in his signature considering how reliable he has been this season.

Rooney, his backroom team and the players also have to be praised for creating an environment that is persuading the shot-stopper to stay put at Pride Park - and if they can retain him and other first-teamers - you certainly wouldn't bet against their return to the second tier at the first time of asking.

Competing in League One will be difficult though and there's no guarantee that the Rams will secure promotion back to their current division straight away, so this show of commitment cannot be understated.

The fact Allsop potentially staying is a big boost for Derby shows how the 29-year-old has managed to turn his career around because he spent the latter stages of his time at Adam's Park on the bench for Wycombe.

Now, it looks as though there will be quite a few second-tier sides competing for his signature and this leaves him with a big decision to make with his destiny firmly in his hands at this point.