It has been a turbulent few years for Derby County who have become known as the ‘bottlers’ after finishing in the play-offs for the past three seasons and failing on every occasion.

There has certainly been elements of shock this season surrounding the club, who have struggled enormously this season, when Nigel Pearson was brought in to push the Rams over the play-off hurdle.

However, those anticipated targets have not quite planned out this term, with the club suspending Pearson over a dispute with Mel Morris and ultimately being relieved of his duties as manager.

Then, nobody saw the re-appointment of Steve McClaren coming after a rather unsuccessful spell at the Rams previously.

In terms of signings, there has been no major element of surprise since their days in the Premier League, but they did stump up a record fee for an acquisition this year that many felt puzzled by.

Football League World Writer, Ashley Williams identifies THREE of Derby’s biggest shock signings of all-time…

 

Kenny Miller

Despite only enduring one season at the Rams, many would have been surprised with his move from the Scottish giants Celtic.

Miller has been known for one of Scotland’s most lethal striker and the Rams prized him away from Celtic for a minimal fee of just £2.5 million.

Miller started well at his new club, scoring in his first two home matches, including the winner on his league debut for the Rams against Newcastle United in a 1–0 win, a strike which won the club's Goal of the Season award.

Robbie Savage

Savage joined Derby County for a fee of £1.5 million on a two-and-a-half-year deal, and later revealed that he had taken a pay cut to join Derby and had rejected a move to Sunderland because he felt Derby had wanted him more.

Many of the supporters would not have expected the Welshman to join the club, who enjoyed three successful years at the IPro.

Matej Vydra

The Rams supporters would have been surprised with the fee of this signing as the club stumped up £8 million on a player that has been short of goals since his days with Watford.

The Czech Republic international was on loan at Reading last season and managed just three goals in 31 appearances.

The club were linked with Jonathan Kodjia in the summer and many will wonder why the money wasn't used to bring in the Frenchman.

Derby County fans… Were these the THREE biggest shock signings for you? If not, who would you pick? Let us know in your thoughts and opinions below!