Derby County will commence a new era under the stewardship of Nigel Pearson when the Football League season gets underway in August, in what is sure to be an interesting season for the Rams.

The East Midlands-based outfit were beaten by Hull City in the Championship play-offs last season and after spending £24 million on players throughout the season it represented a massive failure.

With the Championship more difficult than ever in 2016/17 new boss Pearson will be keen to ensure that his side are raring to go when they entertain Brighton and Hove Albion during the season’s curtain raiser.

The former Leicester City boss knows what it takes to get out of the Championship and he will probably assemble a squad capable of challenging for honours next season in the coming weeks.

Football League writer Lee Clarke takes a look at three players who will form the core of the Derby County team in 2016/17.

Richard Keogh

Richard Keogh

A man who still divides opinion with many Derby County supporters is Republic of Ireland international Richard Keogh.

The ex-Coventry City defender is likely to form a key part of the Rams’ defensive unit next season and it will be no surprise if Nigel Pearson opts to leave the armband on Keogh.

Whether his ability comes into question or not, he has the utmost respect from his team-mates and that is a crucial attribute when it comes to choosing a captain.

The 29-year-old was named as the club’s Player of the Year for the last campaign and next season looks to be another big season for the Rams’ skipper.

Will Hughes

hughes44

The 21-year-old missed the majority of last season with a serious knee injury and the 2016/17 campaign is a big chance for the youngster to get his career back on track.

The starlet has been linked with a move to Premier League giants Manchester United in recent days and it still remains to be seen at this stage whether or not Hughes will still be a Derby player come August.

It is likely that the Rams will keep him however and with Premier League aspirations of their own, the form of Hughes will be integral to the fortunes of Derby County.

Chris Martin

chris martinchris martin

Pictures on social media this week showed Chris Martin looking in top shape as he returned for pre-season training along with the rest of his team-mates.

The Scotland international is another man who came under fire from certain sections of the Derby County support last season, after some patchy displays in front of goal.

The 27-year-old still managed 14 goals last season but he will undoubtedly be looking to get back up towards another 20-goal haul during 2016/17.

Martin is a striker who fits in with the Nigel Pearson style of football and it would be no surprise at all to see a smaller, poacher style striker arrive to play off Martin next season at some point during the summer.

Derby County fans, do you agree that these three will form the core of your team next season? Who else do you think will be equally important for the club? Let us know in the comments below!!!