Derby County secured a massive three points with an impressive comeback win against high-flying Cardiff in the week to move them back into the top six.

After losing three consecutive games, many had the Rams as outsiders for the crucial clash but victory has ensured finishing in the top six is in their hands now.

Although, they do face a tough trip to Villa Park this weekend that could see them head into the final weekend relying on others should they lose. Either way, it promises to be a nervy, exiting end to the season for Gary Rowett's men.

However, given their position at the start of 2018, many fans will be disappointed that Derby are only challenging for the play-offs.

Once again, they faltered when it mattered and slipped down the table.

Should they fail to win promotion, Rowett is sure to make major changes to the playing squad, with plenty of the players falling at the last hurdle over the years.

Here we look at four players he would bring in if he had a big budget...

Derby's squad has been together a long time now and they need some younger players in. Goldson would fit that profile but at 25-years old he is also experienced enough to know exactly why the Championship requires.

The former Shrewsbury Town defender is struggling to get a game at Premier League Brighton and would surely relish the opportunity to play regularly.

His role in helping the Seagulls to promotion from this league shows he is more than capable of starring for the Rams.

Rowett needs to add a more rounded and energetic midfielder to his squad this summer and Fleck would be ideal.

Whilst Tom Huddlestone or George Thorne can sit deep and dictate play, they are missing a top-quality partner.

However, the Sheffield United player would be that man. Fleck is very capable on the ball but also aggressive in the way he plays and would really enhance the Rams in a crucial area.

Selling Johnny Russell to Sporting Kansas City was a bizarre decision from Derby and it has left them very short out wide, so a winger has to be a priority this summer.

And, they could do a lot worse than Preston's Barkhuizen. With eight goals and seven assists he has been very productive this season and boasts real pace that could stretch teams.

Bringing in new strikers has to be high on Rowett's summer plans.

The Rams current strike force are all getting on and they have been reliant on Matej Vydra to score the goals even though he plays deeper.

That would change with Wells who has the pace and movement to link up extremely well with the Czech international and would be a major player for Derby.