The Derby County Diary

Oops that was a bit of a bloomer. I was about to begin a Derby County diary for the season and then thought better of it as it was late. Little did I know that I had hit the wrong button (It must have been late)!

The purpose of this diary will be to track the progress of Nigel Clough as Derby fans have such high hopes this season. I must admit he has had a proper clear out and is obviously concentrating on reshaping the defence. Tito Villa has returned to Mexico, Mears has gone to Burnley, Dickinson to Brighton, Nyatanga to Bristol City, Sterjovski and Andy Todd are bound for Australia, Davis is apparently having his contract cancelled and some of the more prominent youngsters have been freed to join other clubs.

Today he signed the Blackpool captain Shaun Barker after a prolonged chase for his signature. Barker follows some quite surprising signings. There is no doubt that Nigel has been scouring the lower divisions for talent and he has astonishing faith in the abilities of some of his former Burton Albion players.

I must admit I could not see Jake Buxton and Saul Deeley ever making the grade three divisions up and that could also go for Dean Moxey from Exeter and I thought the signing of Pringle from Ilkeston was a touch barmy. In footballing terms it is a long way from Ilkeston to Derby. First reports are that young Pringle is a good 'un so I will reserve judgement.

The most surprising potential signing is the Aussie Patrick Kisnorbo who was only recently a hero at Leicester. Apparently he got injured and Leicester cut him loose so he can be considered a risk. If he can be coaxed back to his best then he could be a genuine bonus.

This leaves Lee Croft last seen being relegated with Norwich as being the only other signing alongside Barker who has proven ability at this level. Having said that the squad does look balanced with cover in all positions. All the major injured players from last season are back in training so it will be interesting to see who emerges as the first team and how they play under Nigel. Time will tell!