Derby County are in for a nerve-wracking final day of the season as their draw against Swansea City has put the pressure back on them to remain on the sixth spot. This was always going to be a problem for them as they square up against West Bromwich Albion in the final game of the season and Middlesbrough play league strugglers Rotherham. Anything less than a win for Lampard’s men can result in heartbreak.
Even last season the Rams finished on the sixth spot so one can say Lampard has kept them where they were. However, they do need to add reinforcements to their side if they want to take the next step and emerge as one of the favourites for Premier League qualification (If they don’t qualify this season).
One player they can go after is Nick Powell of Wigan Atheltic. The English playmaker is in the final few months of his contract and is going to be available on a free transfer in the summer. Quite a few clubs have been linked with him in the past few months, and the Rams should join the race to sign him.
Why Lampard needs Powell?
20-year-old Mason Mount has been an influential player for Lampard this season, and he has contributed with ten goals and five assists in all competitions.
His impressive form at Pride Park even earned him a national call up which was surprising to see given the fact that the Chelsea loanee is plying his trade in the English second tier. Nevertheless, that showed his quality and impact he has had for Derby this season.
However, once his loan spell expires, Derby will need to get an able replacement. The performance of Mount would mean that Chelsea might want to keep him for the next season. Even if they do not, quite a few Premier League clubs will fancy having Mount on loan. So for Derby to sign him again, they might have to win all their games from here onwards.
Powell has that creativeness in him, and he can replace Mount’s goals and assists. His performance for the Latics has been impressive, and the attacking midfielder can even play as a striker up front when required. Given his technical abilities, the former Manchester United playmaker can be more of a threat in a team like Derby County. He can pick out a pass or finish off moves, and that is often a rare quality to have. On a free transfer, Powell’s signing looks even more fruitful.
