Any potential route to the Premier League for Derby County is set to be blocked by the intimidating wall of play-off football, with Gary Rowett's men scrapping for a top-six position in the closing stages of the season.

The Rams looked like keeping pace with runaway pair Wolverhampton Wanderers and Cardiff City, but inconsistent runs coupled with their rivals excellent form have seen Rowett's side fall from contention for the automatic spots.

Big changes are expected to the squad at Pride Park once the season draws to a close with an overhaul required whether the club are promoted are not, with this trio at risk of the chop.

However Rowett could offer them a Rams lifeline by sanctioning a loan deal, in order to allow them to fight for their future...

The 22-year-old academy graduate is approaching the stage of his young career in which he either breaks into the first-team on a regular basis or falls into a lower level of football, with the latter appearing most likely at the moment.

Hanson needs to prove to his boss that he has the ability to challenge for a starting spot and could turn Rowett's head with a series of impressive displays whilst out on loan.

Plenty of clubs in the third tier will covet his services and Hanson will surely start in League One, giving him an opportunity to show his expectant manager that he does indeed have a future at the club.

Thorne is a phenomenal player whose career has been blighted by injuries which have kept him out for extended periods, and a loan deal to prove his fitness could work wonders for the midfielder.

Rowett is likely to bolster his options in the middle when the transfer window reopens for business and Thorne could find himself down the pecking order having started just eight games this semester.

A loan deal could work wonders for the 25-year-old's confidence who could return to Pride Park with his injury woes behind him and a bright career on the horizon.

The potential is there, he just needs to stay fit.

The 19-year-old was picked up from Cheltenham Town in 2016 and made his league debut for the Rams earlier in the season, but it appears he is far from ready to compete for a regular berth in the side.

A talented young midfielder, Thomas has impressed with the reserves but football at that level can only take you so far, with competitive action required to excel and fulfil potential.

Perhaps Thomas will consider a loan switch back to former side Cheltenham where he can find his feet close to home, returning to the East Midlands a completely different player.

Rams fans, thoughts?