Things are going so well for Derby County that manager Gary Rowett has called them a "Premier League club in waiting" and he turned down the chance to manage in the Premier League with Stoke City because he feels he can get there with the Rams.

One man who has been a big part of that success this season has been Johnny Russell. He has five goals and three assists from his 25 appearances for the club this season and, at 27, seems the right age to be with the club through the best years of his career.

However, it appears that Russell has other ideas. Rowett has told the club's website that Russell has his eyes on a move to MLS in America and to that end, he has rejected contract offers to extend his stay at the IPro Stadium.

The Verdict

It seems an odd one and has come slightly out of the blue. Russell has a very real chance to become a Premier League player and MLS is deemed to be a bit of a retirement home.

However, moving to America is a lifestyle choice that must appeal. There are some quality players out there. It just remains to be seen whether a deal gets done.

Derby fans - what is your reaction to the news that Russell wants to leave the club? Let us know in the comments below...