The Derby County striker could play a pivotal part in Paul Warne’s plans ahead of the 2024/25 Championship season.
Paul Warne has had a mixed pre-season so far this season, with the Rams having endured a 4-0 loss to Paul Cook’s Chesterfield.
However, Derby County have brought in plenty of new faces during the summer transfer window, with Warne prioritising both midfield and attacking signings.
The midfield additions of Kenzo Goudmijn, Ben Osborn, Ebou Adams and David Ozoh have already bolstered Derby County’s options in the middle of the park.
Extra depth has been added in attack with the additions of Kayden Jackson and Jerry Yates, with Warne expressing the need to bring proven Championship goal scoring prowess to his side.
Despite the reinforcements in the striker position, there is one current player that could surprisingly play a key role for Warne’s side this season.
James Collins could play key role for Paul Warne at Derby County
Derby County striker James Collins got himself on the scoresheet in the Rams’ pre-season friendly against Shrewsbury Town.
Despite the signings of Jackson and Yates, Collins could still provide an impact this season.
However, Warne is still looking to further bolster his options up-top ahead of the new season.
The former Irish international scored 14 goals in 38 appearances for Derby County in the League One promotion winning campaign.
Collins also has 27 goals and six assists at Championship level throughout his career in a total of 114 appearances.
Will James Collins be able to thrive in Paul Warne’s set-up
In Derby County’s clash with Shrewsbury Town, Warne opted with a formation that saw the wing-backs utilised as the side’s only width, with the midfield three being prioritised.
The wing-backs often looked to get the ball in the box, something that perfectly suits a player of Collins’ mould, and therefore could likely see him utilised this season, despite not quite having a brilliant record at Championship level.
The 33-year-old will need fast players who can give him aerial chances in order to get the best out of him, and if Warne emphasises the need for this in his team, then Collins could be crucial for the former Rotherham United boss’ side this campaign.
Time will tell as to whether Warne will opt for the quicker option of Jackson up-top, who will be more effective in running behind, or as to whether he needs a target man.
If Derby County are up against the cosh at times this season, Collins could easily provide a massive and necessary goal threat for the Rams at times of need.