Rangers summer signing Tom Lawrence has claimed he will definitely be watching out for Derby County in the future. 

The 28-year-old left the Rams when his contract expired a few months ago, bringing to an end his five-year spell at Pride Park, and despite interest from the Championship opted for a move to Ibrox.

Lawrence was Derby's captain and top scorer last term as they attempted what would have been a remarkable escape from relegation to League One after being deduced 21 points.

The East Midlands club were unable to do so but are rebuilding now following David Clowes' successful takeover and will hope to challenge for promotion back to the Championship under Liam Rosenior.

Speaking on Sky Sports (via Football Daily), Lawrence has reflected on the 2021/22 campaign and indicated he'll be watching how the Rams fare from afar.

He said: "Yeah, it was tough at times but I think we had a really good group of players. I think we handled it brilliantly but obviously, 21 points at the end was far too much for us so we couldn't do the impossible in the end.

"But the lads gave it a good go and the fans stuck with us as well so I'll watch out for Derby in the future, that's for definite."

With Lawrence gone, experienced centre-back Curtis Davies has been named the new club captain after re-signing with midfielder Max Bird the vice-captain.

The Rams get their League One season underway against Oxford United at Pride Park on Saturday.

The Verdict

Lawrence's comments should go down well with the supporters of his former club.

His Derby career was a bit of a rollercoaster ride but his commitment last year is beyond question.

Few people gave the Rams much hope and many supporters questioned Wayne Rooney's decision to give the Welshman the captain's armband but he led from the front and the East Midlands club nearly pulled off the impossible.

It always seemed likely that the 28-year-old would leave in the summer and it may be preferable for the Pride Park outfit that he's not joined another EFL club.