Derby County: Jake Rooney teases return from injury after year-long absence | OneFootball

The versatile defender suffered a set-back in pre-season after suffering an ACL injury in September 2023.

Derby County have been troubled by multiple injuries over the last few weeks. However, they are set to be boosted by the return of a long-term absentee.

Jake Rooney has been out of action since September 2023, when he suffered a devastating ACL injury against Bolton Wanderers in the opening minutes of the game.

He was preparing to return to the team at the start of the season, but a set-back in pre-season has cost him even more time away from the pitch.

Rooney's injury tease

However, an update from his social media on Wednesday evening has given Rams fans hope of the versatile defender returning to the squad in the coming months.

Rooney hinted that he was coming back into training at the start of September in a separate post, and his ability to play across the backline and in midfield will be crucial for Derby's season.

Rooney's post is exciting for Derby

After so long out, the return of the 21-year-old is an exciting one for supporters as well as Paul Warne, who was forced to find a way around fixing the team without him last season.

Ryan Nyambe was brought in to provide cover, and he was fantastic, earning himself two new contracts, and securing his place in the first-team.

Nevertheless, the ex-Burnley player will be able to play just about anywhere for Warne in the defensive third, and he will feel like a new signing after such a long time out.

But, his return must be micromanaged, and he can not be rushed back into the team, even if Derby are struggling for numbers in either midfield or the back four. His second injury over the summer proved that his workload has to be minimal, otherwise there is a huge risk of further damage in the future.

That does not mean that fans should not look forward to his return though, as Rooney has been one of the most consistent performers when he has played during his two years at the club.

His battling spirit and ability to do a solid job wherever he is asked to, makes him a really key asset to Warne.

Rooney's return gives Warne a nice headache

The cousin of former Derby manager and current Plymouth Argyle boss, Wayne Rooney, will potentially be hoping to see a little bit of action before the next international break in October.

There is not a rush to bring him into the side due to the options the Rams currently have, but the feeling of playing in a competitive match will give Rooney an even bigger boost after such a long time away.

He was given minutes in pre-season, featuring against local side Matlock Town, so there is evidence that he is in Warne's plans going forward.

The Rams manager is in a fantastic position where he does not need to force the 21-year-old straight back in when he makes his full return as he currently has plenty of options. But, some fine performances for the U21s in the coming weeks could force him into a decision at some point before Christmas.