Derby County boss Paul Warne has a lot to weigh up this month.
Derby County endured a tough opening day defeat vs Blackburn Rovers, losing 4-2 at Ewood Park.
The defeat, and the ease that Blackburn had in getting through the Rams defence, has gotten alarm bells ringing among supporters.
Fans fear that their side could be in for a long Championship campaign if no new signings are made this month.
So far this summer, the Rams have signed eight new players, with Derby County fans impressed by Kenzo Goudmijn.
The Dutchman has started both games so far including the Carabao Cup win vs Chesterfield.
The Rams came from behind to win 2-1 in a game that saw Warne make several changes to the XI, handing a first appearance of the season to Dajaune Brown.
The young striker played 70 minutes before coming off, with Derby County fans offering mixed verdicts on Browns’ performance at Pride Park.
Now, Warne has shared his thoughts.
- READ MORE: Sky pundit’s Derby County v Middlesbrough score prediction after Rams ‘eye-opener’ v Blackburn
Paul Warne verdict on Dajaune Brown future at Derby County
Warne spoke fondly of Brown’s performance vs Chesterfield, suggesting that the 18-year-old performed better than he expected.
Warne then delve into Brown’s future at the club and spoke about the possibility of sending the Rams academy man out on loan.
Last season, Brown spent time on loan with Gateshead in the National League, scoring five goals in 18 league appearances.
Warne told the club: “It’s a difficult one in terms of if we keep him with us or loan him out, because I think he could have an effect for us.
“We have Jerry Yates to come back from suspension and I still want to sign another striker. Then, it is about how much game time I can give him [Brown].
“From a club development point of view, maybe I would be better off loaning him out.
“However, from a selfish point of view I like the thought that he’s here and I can put him on, and he might start a game here and there so he can get used to how we play.”
The stance that Paul Warne should take on Dajaune Brown’s Derby County future
Warne’s comments are understandable.
Given what’s going to be a tough season in the second tier, Warne will want all the quality and all the options he can get.
But realistically, Brown won’t have that much of an impact in the Championship this season.
He showed in midweek that he’s not at the level required just yet. So the best thing for Brown is to go out on loan and play regularly.
Spending last season in the National League, it would make sense for Brown to go to a League Two club and play against the likes of Chesterfield all season.
And if he can go out this month then Brown would have a whole season to get up to speed.
Then come next summer, Brown might be in a better position to challenge for a spot in the first-team, and not a back-up role either.