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…

 

Luke Thomas

Attacking midfielder Thomas was called into the first-team set-up in October following an excellent run of form in the reserve side, but now looks ready to have an impact on Rowett’s side.

Signed from Cheltenham last year, the 18-year-old has already notched four goals in the Premier League 2 this season, and is considered to be one of the most exciting young talents at the club.

Thomas deserves an opportunity to shine, and given the success of recently sold Will Hughes in the first-team, Rowett should consider giving this youngster a serious opportunity.

Thomas has potential, and if nurtured, he could become a star.

 

Offrande Zanzala

Emigrating to Austria as a youngster from the Republic of Congo before moving to England a few years later, Zanzala joined the Rams academy in 2008, and hasn’t looked back.

Awarded the U-21 Premier League Player of the Month award in October 2015, Zanzala has shown huge potential for some time now, and could finally be ready to make his first-team bow.

With Derby struggling upfront and failing to settle on a consistent starting striker, the opportunity is there for Zanzala to stake a claim, and Rowett should give the 21-year-old a go.

Four goals for the U-23’s already this season, Zanzala has proven his ability with the reserves, and appears ready to take the next step.

Derby fans, what have you made of the progress of the pair so far? Do you think they are ready for the first-team? Have your say below...