Derby County manager Paul Warne admits he will not be surprised should there be interest in the so-called fringe members of his squad this January, as reported by The Derby Telegraph.
Wideman Joe Ward has already been linked with two fellow Championship sides as the transfer window opens.
No Surprise To Warne
The promotion-winning manager is not at all surprised to see interest in his squad players and understands why other sides show an interest.
“I appreciate every window there’s speculation about all my players because they’re good players and I can understand why other teams would want them.”
“It wouldn’t surprise me if there’s speculation about Wardy or Tom Barkhuizen or Corey Blackett-Taylor – the list goes on. The lads who haven’t started many games recently will be linked to everything, and I can understand why.”
Warne almost takes the interest as a compliment to the players but also the recruitment that has been carried out by his club.
“I’m fortunate that throughout my career, my players have always been wanted by others because I think people can see what they bring, but the characters that we sign here are virtually faultless. I understand the rumours and they will always continue.”
Players Must Go Out Before They Come In
According to the report, The Rams will have to let players go before they can add to their squad for the second half of the Championship season.
Joe Ward, the wide player signed from Peterborough United in July 2023, is reportedly on the radar of Portsmouth and Oxford United. The 29-year-old has been restricted to just six league appearances and just 138 minutes of action this campaign.
Tom Barkhuizen, another mentioned by the manager, has also played less than 200 minutes of Championship football this season and has only started once.
Corey Blackett-Taylor is another to have struggled for Championship minutes following his summer move from Charlton Athletic and could well leave Pride Park this month. Northern Ireland international Conor Washington has failed to make an appearance so far this season and could be another moved on.
Writer’s View
The January window is a time for rumour and speculation and the reported interest in his players will be no shock to Warne.
It is perhaps surprising that Championship sides would be circling and it is more likely to see League One clubs looking to put together loan deals for players who have performed well in the division previously.
