Derby County striker Martyn Waghorn has paid tribute to Rams' midfielder Mason Mount as the Chelsea loanee prepares to return to Stamford Bridge. 

Mount has spent the season on loan with Frank Lampard's and has been one of the club's stand-out performers, playing a big part in their run to the play-off final.

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Posting on his Instagram story, alongside a photograph of the pair, Waghorn wrote: "All the very best for the future mate."

In 35 Championship appearances this season Mount managed an impressive eight goals and five assists as Derby snuck into the play-off places.

He scored a crucial goal in their semi-final second leg against Leeds United at Elland Road as well, finishing excellently from Harry Wilson's pass, as the Rams overcame a 2-0 deficit to reach Wembley.

However, they met their match in Aston Villa under the arch as they were beaten comfortably by Dean Smith's men.

The verdict 

I would say this all but confirms that Mount will not be sticking around for another season.

He has been excellent all season, offering a creative spark from midfield that had been missing for quite some time at Pride Park and will be difficult to replace come the summer.

However, it is a challenge that Lampard will hopefully be relishing and ultimately one that he must prioritise.