Breaking: Four players John Eustace must axe from Derby County in the summer transfer window, including academy ace
As Derby County looks ahead to life in the Championship under head coach John Eustace, the summer transfer window presents a vital opportunity to reshape the squad for the demands of a higher level. While much of the focus will be on strengthening key areas, the other side of the coin is equally important—making tough decisions about which players no longer fit the vision.
Eustace, who impressed during the club’s successful promotion campaign, will know that sentiment can’t stand in the way of progress. To truly compete in the Championship, Derby will need a leaner, more dynamic squad—and that means letting go of players who either haven’t performed consistently or may not be ready for the next step. Here are four players the Rams boss should consider offloading this summer, including a highly regarded product of the club’s academy.
**1. Louie Sibley**
Once seen as a future cornerstone of the club, Louie Sibley has struggled to reach the levels expected of him. Despite flashes of promise, consistency has evaded the academy graduate, and injuries have also limited his impact over recent seasons. With Derby now entering a more physically demanding league, the time may have come for Sibley to seek a fresh start elsewhere. Still only 22, he could benefit from a move to a League One side where he can rebuild confidence and get regular minutes.
**2. James Collins**
Collins played a key role in Derby’s League One campaign, bringing experience and a decent goal return. But at 33, questions linger over whether he has the pace and sharpness required to trouble Championship defenses. Eustace may opt to bring in younger, more mobile attacking options to suit a more modern playing style. With his contract expiring soon, this could be the ideal moment to part ways amicably and open the door for a new forward.
**3. Korey Smith**
Another experienced head in the Derby squad, Smith offered composure and leadership in midfield throughout the promotion push. However, with age catching up—he’ll be 34 before the new season kicks off—and younger midfielders likely coming in, it may be time for Eustace to move on from Smith. The Championship requires high energy and legs in midfield, and while Smith’s football IQ is unquestioned, Derby might benefit more from players with a greater physical edge.
**4. Darren Robinson**
The toughest call on this list is Robinson, a promising academy talent who has made waves with his development over the past two seasons. However, with competition in midfield growing and the step up to the Championship bringing a higher bar, Eustace may choose to loan him out or even sanction a permanent move with a sell-on clause. While Robinson’s potential is undeniable, his path to first-team football may be clearer elsewhere—for now.
As Eustace prepares for his first full season in charge, these kinds of decisions will define Derby County’s transition. By trimming the squad and raising the standard, he can give the Rams the best chance of making an immediate impact in the Championship.
