These 2 Derby County U-23 players must be knocking on the door of the first-team

Derby County boss Gary Rowett will be delighted with his side’s start to the season, with the Rams firmly in the hunt for a playoff spot approaching the halfway point of the campaign.

The club had got off to a shaky start, but an excellent October, which saw the Rams pick up maximum points, has propelled Rowett’s side up the table and into contention.

January could be a busy month for the former Birmingham City boss, with additions to the squad possible as he puts the finishing touches to his squad ahead of a top-six push.

Derby spent a significant sum in the summer to bring in the likes of Tom Lawrence, Curtis Davies and Tom Huddlestone, so there is every chance that the board at Pride Park may withhold funds and force Rowett to use players already on the books.

Derby have produced a number of fine young talents from their academy in recent years, and this could certainly be an avenue for Rowett to explore.

These two young players could have what it takes to make an impact this season…