Graeme Bailey has provided an update on the future of two important Derby County stars.
Derby County faced huge pressure to sell some of their biggest players during the summer transfer window.
The Rams had failed to win promotion back to the Championship at the first time of asking, and as a result, they were tasked with keeping hold of their starters.
Eiran Cashin came extremely close to a big money move to the Premier League with Brighton & Hove Albion, while it was a serious ankle injury that brought Hull City’s pursuit of Max Bird to an end.
The two have remained at Pride Park since and have played a key role in pushing for promotion and perhaps even the League One title, with the club sat only three points from the top spot.
It was expected that the pair would be subject to more interest in the January window, but it has so far been relatively quiet.
It will still be a nervy day on Thursday for Derby County as they await confirmation that the duo will stay beyond the deadline. We spoke to journalist Graeme Bailey to find out more about their futures.
“I’ll be honest, I’m surprised we haven’t heard more, especially on Cashin, and Bird as well.
“From what I’ve heard, I suspect it’s down to their promotion push. I think both players are outstanding talents, but I’m surprised someone hasn’t tried to get it done, especially for Cashin… I think Derby are obviously hoping to get up and then it’s a very different situation for them.
“I think if Derby manage to get through this window, which I think is the aim, without having to sell either or have an agreement for either… If Derby are in the Championship, I personally believe they’re both waiting to see.”
Can Derby County keep their biggest stars?
Derby County will have a huge chance to keep their most important players if they are promoted this term, though surely Premier League interest will return for Eiran Cashin.
However, Max Bird could opt to remain at Pride Park if Hull City come back in for him.
The midfielder has spent almost 14 years with The Rams and would surely prefer to stick by the club in the Championship than jump ship – unless Hull managed to get promoted themselves.
Derby will have done a brilliant job if they manage to get through this month unscathed, though losing one of their key men this week could be very costly.