Derby County youngster Jahmal Hector-Ingram has been selected as the Premier League 2 Player of the Month only five months after his West Ham United release.

The young striker failed to earn a new contract at West Ham last summer.

Hector-Ingram subsequently joined Derby on trial, and he earned a deal with the club following an impressive pre-season where he scored on a regular basis.

(Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images).

The 20-year-old has gone from strength to strength at Derby. And, after helping the Rams surge up the Premier League, he has netted the player of the month award.

Hector-Ingram has posted seven goals and two assists so far this season.

The Derby U23s are currently level on points with league leaders Chelsea. Moreover, they have racked up two wins from two in the International Cup.

Hector-Ingram has enjoyed a terrific month. His best performance came against Everton as he scored two goals in a resounding 4-1 win over a previously unbeaten Toffees.

His form raises questions as to why West Ham decided to release him.

The Hammers have an impressive record of developing youngsters and giving them a platform. But with Hector-Ingram, it seems he was given little chance to progress

(Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images).

West Ham may regret their decision. Derby, meanwhile, have everything to gain from his rapid progress and a move out on loan in January could be his next step.

Also see: £3m Lampard signing ruled out: Derby’s predicted line-up for Forest clash

Also see: ‘Please’: Cocu shares immediate response when consulted on £7.8m Derby deal

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