Derby County have had an extremely tough start to the Championship season, but after this weekend's win over Wolves, things are looking brighter in the East Midlands.

They've lost just once in seven games and the decision to bring Steve McClaren back to the club seems to be really paying off right now.

There was no way the Rams were going to struggle so much for the entirety of the campaign but after such a poor start, there were plenty of Rams supporters who were beginning to grow worried.

But on paper, the Rams really do have one of the strongest teams in the division and they should be utilising the whole of their squad.

So with that in mind, are there any players on the fringes of the squad that should be given a chance in the first-team?

We think there are, so here's TWO Derby County men who deserve a chance in the first-team as soon as possible......

Andreas Weimann

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Former Aston Villa man Andreas Weimann has not been having the best time of it at the iPro Stadium this season, and has featured in just four league games this season.

But we think he is a man that would bring plenty of endeavour and energy to the Rams first-team when at times, they've lacked a little energy in the forward line.

He might not be the most clinical or a 20-goal-a-season striker but he's hard-working and deserves more opportunities in the first-team than he currently gets.

Jason Shackell

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Captain and first-choice centre-back Richard Keogh has been extremely on and off this season, and he's attracted plenty of criticism from Derby supporters.

But at times, some have forgotten the likes of Jason Shackell is also available for a selection, and he's a man that knows this team and division as well as any.

He's a solid centre-back with plenty of Premier League experience and a man that could really give Derby a defensive boost, even with the Rams beginning to pick up results again.