Last week the transfer window finally closed after a period that was exhausting, just trying to keep up with the various whispers and deals around the divisions was near impossible.

Pearson’s Strategy:

The whole approach by Nigel Pearson this summer was clearly to assess the players he already had closely before making any sweeping changes.

This strategy was in stark contrast to last season when Paul Clement had players that had arrived before he did and then panic bought in late August, followed by more money chucked at problem areas in January.

It was a relief that this season hasn’t yet appeared to mirror the errors of last season in the transfer market.

Martin out:

I think that this was on balance the right decision, Pearson wants to adopt his own fresh approach and he should be able to do so, after all he was only appointed this summer.

If that means that Martin isn’t part of his plans then that’s the way it is. Chris has been excellent and he’s a real asset when Derby are on their game, we know that from the past few years. Unfortunately over the past few months or so he hasn’t received the service that he really needs to thrive and has looked a little out of it.

Pearson wants more energy and pace in his strike force and it is something that will be interesting to see now he is a little bit closer to having his own team on the pitch.

It’s difficult to see any way back to DCFC for Martin now but I guess you just never know. Either way, everyone can reflect on what an incredible free signing he has been and the contribution he has made for Derby.

Hendrick out:

£10 million is an incredible fee and one that couldn’t have been turned down for a player that wasn’t a nailed on first choice for Pearson, especially as it is a position for which he has a few options.

I hope Hendrick can succeed in the Premier League. He has scored some incredible goals and put in some great performances but ultimately hasn’t been consistent enough to nail down a regular starting eleven place.

Incomings:

For me the two new recruits from Watford are two pretty exciting signings.

Vydra is a proven scorer at this level and with the right players around him should get the chances in front of goal.

Anya has pace and power, exactly what is needed to give everyone a lift and up the tempo after some stale performances. Hopefully he can have the kind of impact Camara had after coming on at Preston — only more consistent.

Where does this leave the squad as a whole?:

It remains a hugely talented squad that have had success in this division but many of those players that have previously proven themselves at this level haven’t stepped up at Derby and so far it hasn’t worked out.

I was hoping Pearson would be the new beginning these players needed but so far that remains to be seen.

A huge exodus, as some had hoped, was never possible. Big wages and a lack of games mean many are hard to sell.

The squad is still big and definitely enough to work with for now, some further tweaks in January can probably be expected though.

Pearson can finally get to work and get going with a team closer to what he wants.

All that’s left is to see how the players respond to him.

COYR!!

For more of Nathan's articles you can read his blog at www.derbycountyfan.com and follow him via @ramscorner on Twitter.

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