Derby County receive takeover update | OneFootball

Derby County’s takeover situation is nearing its next steps, with administrators hoping to name their preferred bidder next week.

The administrators are still deciding between Mike Ashley and the Andy Appleby Group, according to John Percy of the Telegraph.

Ashley, the former owner of Newcastle United, was recently linked with a £50 million bid for the club. Appleby was thought to be the frontrunner before news of Ashley’s interest broke.

Derby County received a 21-point deduction for going into administration and suffer the threat of liquidation if a deal cannot be agreed with a new owner soon.

It was also revealed today that Phil Jagielka has had his contract cancelled by the club, which has reportedly left manager Wayne Rooney livid with the situation. This has ruled the 39-year old defender out of their upcoming game this weekend.

Quiz: Can you name which club Derby County signed these 20 strikers from?

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Darren Bent?

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The Rams are bottom of the Championship. However, despite the 21-point penalty, survival could still be on the cards. It will take a Herculean effort, but Rooney’s side have reduced the gap to 21st place Reading to 11 points.

Their current form has seen them win three of their last four league games, drawing the other, including victories over Stoke City, West Brom and Blackpool.

Rooney’s side next face in-form Sheffield United at Pride Park on January 15. The Blades are currently on a four game winning run of their own under new manager Paul Heckingbottom.

The Verdict

This delay in the decision over the preferred bidder has seen a huge setback for Rooney. The loss of Jagielka will be sorely felt on the pitch and in the dressing room.

While it is the administrators’ duty to find the best possible solution and outcome for Derby, there must surely be a recognition that time is of the essence.

Derby will need to make signings if they stand any chance of their unlikely survival. However, the January transfer window is now nearly halfway over.

Rooney will be hoping his players don’t drop their heads following this news of Jagielka’s contract being cancelled as this weekend’s game approaches quickly.