Speaking to the BBC, Gary Rowett has confirmed Chris Martin will return to Derby County next season after a year away from the Pride Park Stadium.

Martin is currently on-loan with Derby’s Sky Bet Championship rivals Fulham, after the striker was deemed surplus to requirements last summer by Nigel Pearson - who was the Rams’ manager at the time.

The Scottish international tried to return to the Midlands earlier this season, attempting to cut his loan spell at Craven Cottage short, however, Fulham refused.

Speaking about Martin, Rowett said: "I spoke to Chris. The general feeling is he wants to come back.

"He's contracted to the club, he's coming back. He's a player I think the team has missed."

Martin has enjoyed a successful season in London, scoring 11 goals for Fulham, who look set to compete in the Play-Offs next month.

Slavisa Jokanovic’s side are currently sixth in the Championship table, three-points clear of Leeds United who are seventh.

Derby have not had the same success as Martin this campaign, sitting tenth in the table and already on their third manager of the season.

Derby fans… Are you pleased to hear Martin will be back with your club next season? Let us know in the comments!