Derby County have handed Martyn Waghorn the No.9 jersey ahead of his potential debut against Leeds United this Saturday.  

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Frank Lampard has moved to add Waghorn to his Derby squad today, with confirmation coming this morning that the forward had agreed a three-year deal at the Pride Park Stadium.

Later in the day a further announcement came, with Derby confirming that Waghorn will wear the No.9 jersey during the upcoming season, just as he did for Ipswich Town in the Championship last year.

Waghorn, 28, takes the number from Chris Martin, who had previously worn it for the Rams.

Last season, during his only year with Ipswich, Waghorn was involved in more goals than any other Championship forward.

He scored 16 goals and registered 11 assists, with that form putting him on Lampard’s radar this summer.

Derby aren’t in action during the week, but on Saturday return to Pride Park, where they are looking to make it two wins from two fixtures.

Visiting on Saturday evening is Leeds, who under Marcelo Bielsa, are also looking for their second victory of the season.

The Verdict

Although squad numbers don’t mean much anymore, this will feel like a boost for Waghorn, who looks like he will be given the chance to lead the line regularly for the Rams.

The forward has been in good goalscoring form over the last 12 months, with Derby seemingly turning to the 28-year-old to maintain that to guide them into promotion contention.

The Rams’ new No.9 will be looking to hit the ground running against Leeds.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!