Derby County are interested in signing Sheffield Wednesday star Marvin Johnson but face competition from newly promoted Oxford United for the 33-year-old’s signature, according to reports.
The Rams won promotion to the second tier with 92 points last season, missing out on first by just five points. As they return to the Championship, reinforcements will be necessary to mount a challenge to survive in a stronger division. Midfielders Kenzo Goudmijn, Ebou Adams and Ben Osborn have all joined the squad for the upcoming season, but no defensive options have arrived as of yet.
Craig Forsyth and Callum Elder are currently the only two left-backs the club possesses, with Paul Warne looking for more quality. Whilst, Johnson can play as a fullback and a wingback, he can also be deployed higher up the pitch as a winger. Derby often played a back three system last season, with Louie Sibley on the left. However, he has now left for Oxford United, thus suggesting a replacement is needed.
In their first game of the season, the club played back four, meaning that Johnson could be utilised differently from his tenure with the Owls. In their opening-day clash with Blackburn Rovers, Derby County suffered a 4-2 defeat, emphasising the need to strengthen before the end of the transfer window.
As a result, it has been revealed that the club are targeting Johnson, according to journalist Darren Witcoop. The veteran has a vast amount of experience in the English Football League as he has made just under 300 appearances which could be crucial this season. In addition, he is very versatile as he can play anywhere on the left as suggested by him appearing all across the pitch during his career.
In his most recent campaign, he played a part of the Sheffield Wednesday side that narrowly avoided relegation, appearing 29 times, while scoring four goals registering and four assists. Furthermore, his stats compared to others in his position are impressive as he was in the top 10 percentile for total shots, progressive carries and non-penalty goals per 90, as per FBref.
Marvin Johnson with a huge goal for Sheffield Wednesday! ⚡😮 pic.twitter.com/msne3NpXyd
— Sky Sports Football (@SkyFootball) April 21, 2024
Due to his qualities, interest has come from opposition in the Championship. As reported by Witcoop, newly promoted Derby County and Oxford have set Johnson as a target before the transfer window closes in just over two weeks. However, with the Yellows’ riches in this position, the interest may come as a surprise to many.
Writer’s View
Overall, this would be a great signing for the Rams given the Englishman’s experience across the pyramid for clubs such as Sheffield United, Middlesbrough and many more. This knowledge could be crucial if the club are fighting for survival. In addition, he is also versatile which can be important for Derby County to change and be adaptable throughout the season.
On the other hand, the winger is ageing and may not be able to play consistently which still leaves Warne’s options depleted. Despite this, the fullback could be pivotal for the Rams’ season. Therefore, this is good short-term business for the season ahead.
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