We have agreed’ – David Clowes confirms Derby County transfer stance ahead of January window
Ahead of the January transfer window, Derby County owner David Clowes has revealed his discussions with head coach Paul Warne.
The Rams, who were promoted from League One last season and are now in 16th position after 22 games, are hoping to bolster their roster and make some changes as they enter the winter transfer window.
Ahead of a challenging pair of games during the Christmas break, with Leeds United traveling to Pride Park on Sunday and West Bromwich Albion on Boxing Day, the Rams are six points clear of the relegation zone.
The Rams’ roster isn’t anticipated to undergo a significant change in January, but there may be attempts to upgrade Warne’s choices up front and cut players who aren’t getting enough playing time.
In a Christmas Eve speech to fans, Clowes laid out Derby’s position on movements going into the January window.
“I know the transfer window is just a week or so away and there will be furious speculation among fans as to what might happen,” Clowes stated on the club’s website.
“It would be ridiculous for us to be so naïve as to perform all of our labor in public. I will state that Paul Warne has been quite calm and measured in our conversations, and he has clearly laid out the areas in which he believes we need to improve. We have agreed with his approach and will make every effort to comply with his suggestions.
Since we have adhered strictly to the company plan, there are resources available and room for the team to grow without jeopardizing our financial stability. We will function in a manner that preserves our stability while enhancing the caliber of an already brilliant team; there won’t be any panic or rash purchases that deviate from our intentions.”
In addition, Clowes has stated that the team has never felt the need to change its coaching staff. He has also compared Derby’s performance to that of fellow promotion winners Portsmouth and Oxford United, who finished in 20th and 23rd position, respectively. “Where we are both in the division and as a club as a whole is exactly where we need to be,” Clowes stated.
“Yes, there have been some disappointing results, that’s natural and was the case last season and every season since I’ve been supporting Derby County. However, we haven’t allowed them to destabilise us or knock us off course and there has never been a moment’s panic.
“Compare our current position to those clubs who joined us out of League One and I think their fans would swap without a moment’s hesitation.”
