Steve McClaren has moved to ensure that his bench warming chargers don’t go stale by ensuring competitive action for two Rams not in his immediate plans.
Both Kieron Freeman and Michael Jacobs have this week been loaned out with an eye on keeping both match fit as well as developing their undoubted talents.
Still young in football terms — Freeman (21) and Jacobs (22) have shown glimpses of their undoubted talents in their time at the Rams.
The issue for the players is that others are in front of them in their chosen positions, and with more returning from injury in coming weeks the situation is unlikely to improve.
McClaren has decided first team football is essential if they are to remain fit and ready if required, plus he may have decided to put them in the shop window.
Freeman joined Notts County on an emergency loan until January 2014, heading back from the area he came from as he originally joined the Rams from Forest at the start of last season. Freeman is no stranger to Meadow Lane as he spent the part of the 2011/12 season at the Magpies on loan, while still at Forest.
Having only made 7 appearances this season and 27 in total — he fell out of favour with previous Manager Nigel Clough after a few on field howlers — despite the fact many fans felt Freeman was hung out to dry for the sins of many by Clough.
Freeman is the first signing for Magpie’s manager Shaun Derry who has only just taken charge at Notts County — which is also home to former Rams defender Dean Leacock.
Unfortunately it was not a happy return for Freeman as after going straight into the squad for last night’s Johnstone’s Paint Trophy Northern Area Quarter Final - Oldham Athletic put County to the sword with a 5-1thumping.
Freeman came on as a late substitute only to be on the end of a horror tackle which resulted in the Oldham player being red-carded, while Dean Leacock was sent off earlier in the match.
Good luck Kieron — sounds like you may need it!
The other player heading out of Pride Park on Loan, Michael Jacobs joined League One side Wolverhampton Wanderers, also on an emergency loan, until January 2nd 2014.
Although he is somewhat of a Ram fan favourite for his obvious enthusiasm and attacking intent, Jacobs has been unable to find his way off the bench permanently under either Clough or McClaren.
After making 41 appearances in total for Derby last season, he has only managed 6 in total this season to date.
With Simon Dawkins and Ward showing such good form, chances for Jacobs were becoming less likely. I would think Wolves manager Kenny Jackett will welcome him with open arms as Wanderers work towards securing promotion this season.
Ironically Wolves meet Notts County on Saturday — so Freeman and Jacobs are likely to go head to head in their first League One clash.
Let’s hope for the boy’s sake — they play out a draw.