John Eustace made the controversial switch to Derby County last season, despite his former club, Blackburn Rovers, being in and around the top six, and the Rams being in a relegation dogfight.
There were rumours of a fall-out with The Venky’s, who own the Lancashire club, as Eustace felt that the project at Pride Park suited him better.
So, with Derby County managing to stay in the Championship on a dramatic final day, let’s look at who they could add to their ranks to finish next season in a stronger position.
LB – Alfie Doughty (Luton Town)
This is quite an ambitious shout as Doughty has been a standout for Luton Town in both the Championship and the Premier League, but after back-to-back relegations, he may see his future elsewhere and want a move away from Kenilworth Road.
He is still under contract at Luton; however, with 2.7 chances created per 90 minutes from left wing back and a further 4.18 successful crosses per game, his attacking output would certainly justify a fee.
He’s also strong defensively and recorded 1.6 tackles won and 5.9 recoveries per game; therefore, definitely a capable Championship full back.
CM ‘Number 8’ – Lewis Travis (Blackburn Rovers)
Travis played under Eustace, who has already raided his former side Blackburn with the double coup of Danny Batth and Andreas Weimann.
He is also a very capable operator, 85% pass success rate across the full season and 195 ball recoveries, making him a perfect fit for a ‘number 8’ role.
He is reportedly in demand from multiple other clubs, and a seven-figure fee will most likely be required for The Rovers’ skipper.
Link to Eustace and his tendency to go for players he has previously worked with does make this a sensible option.
CM/CAM – Adam Phillips (Barnsley)
Phillips has played mostly as a central midfielder for Barnsley over the past three seasons, but his attacking output is fantastic, and I think he could play in a more advanced role.
Furthermore, Barnsley had a very disappointing season in League One last year, and it is reported that Phillips is one of a trio of Tykes players who could depart the club this summer.
With 56 goal contributions in 132 games, he is more than capable of making the step up to the Championship in my opinion.
He is in the 95th percentile for possession won in the final third for League One midfielders last season, so he is press proven as well.
RW – Tyrhys Dolan (OOC – Blackburn Rovers)
A fast and direct winger, Dolan looks set to leave Ewood Park this summer, with Derby strongly linked with the winger.
However, he has other suitors and is reported to have had lengthy discussions with Bristol City, also.
He is a strong Championship player who can play anywhere across the front line, but will he follow John Eustace to Blackburn?
Who do you think the Rams should sign?
