
BREAKING: Derby County’s Leading Goal Scorer Hints at Exit After Pre-Season Snub — “It’s Clear I’m No Longer Needed”

In a stunning twist that’s sent shockwaves through Pride Park, **Derby County’s top scorer is now poised to leave the club** after being surprisingly left out of the club’s pre-season preparations. The prolific forward, whose goals were instrumental in the Rams’ recent campaign, has reportedly expressed frustration behind closed doors, admitting, *“It’s clear I’m no longer needed here.”*
The player’s absence from pre-season fixtures and training camps has raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. While no official announcement has been made by the club, sources close to the player suggest the relationship between him and the current coaching staff has soured — leaving his future hanging in the balance.
### “Left Out, Let Down, and Looking Ahead”
After finishing last season as Derby’s top scorer — a feat that earned him admiration across League One — many expected the star striker to be a central figure in the club’s plans moving forward. However, his omission from recent squad activities suggests otherwise.
**“I gave everything for the badge,”** the player is believed to have told teammates. **“But I can’t fight for a place I’m not even being considered for. Maybe it’s time to move on.”**
Fans are both stunned and divided. While some are calling for transparency from the club, others believe this may be part of a broader tactical shift by manager **Paul Warne**, who has been busy reshaping the squad for a serious promotion push in the upcoming season.
### Fallout and Fan Reaction
On social media, reactions have been intense. Hashtags like **#RespectOurTopScorer** and **#DerbyDeparture** began trending within hours of the news breaking. Many supporters are pleading with the club to reconsider, fearing that losing such a proven goal-scorer could hurt their promotion hopes.
One fan posted on X (formerly Twitter):
**“This man carried us through games when it mattered. If he’s really leaving like this, it’s not just bad business — it’s disrespectful.”**
Others have speculated whether the situation is part of a calculated strategy by the club to bring in younger or more tactically versatile forwards as part of a long-term rebuild. Even so, questions remain about the manner in which the situation has unfolded.
### What Happens Next?
It’s believed that several League One and Championship clubs are already monitoring the situation closely, ready to pounce should the forward become available. With his proven scoring record and strong work ethic, he’s unlikely to remain a free agent for long — if a departure is confirmed.
Derby County have yet to issue an official statement, but pressure is mounting for clarity. Meanwhile, the player’s future looks increasingly set to continue **away from Pride Park.