The three most important players in Derby County's promotion push

With 10 games to go in League One, Derby County find themselves in the thick of the promotion race.

They sit in second place, seven points behind first place and level on points with third placed Bolton Wanderers.

However, as they have only won one game in their last three, a good run of form is essential if they are to return to the Championship.

There have been a number of stand out players for the Rams this season, but if they are to go up they will have to rely on their key players to continue their strong season.

3 - Dwight Gayle

Dwight Gayle joined the Rams just two weeks ago, but his importance during the run in will be huge. The 34 year-old was brought in as a replacement for James Collins who suffered a knee injury and will be out until likely the end of March.

If Gayle can use his goalscoring ability to help keep the Rams afloat and in scoring form until and beyond Collins returning he could be seen as the best signing of the season and could help Derby to some crucial points which in turn could send them up to the Championship.

2 - Eiran Cashin

Eiran Cashin's importance to Derby is no secret. The young centre back signed a new deal in January and will remain at Pride Park until 2027 assuming there is no transfer.

With 10 games left to go, the Rams still have to face tough attacking teams such as Portsmouth, Bolton and Blackpool, three games which could decide Derby's fate.

As the Rams' best defender, if Cashin can shine in those big, important games, he could help the Rams get through the last 10 games and stay where they are currently; in an automatic promotion place. No more mistakes, such solid defending like Rams fans know Cashin can bring.

1 - Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing has been Derby's best player this season and has more goal involvements than any other member of the squad.

It wouldn't be a suprise to see him win a League One award come the end of the year, because his importance in a Derby shirt has been unquestioned.

The Guatemalan international has been the focal point of Derby's attacking play this season. With his pace but also underated ball placement both on crosses and shots, he has had a huge influence.

If Derby go up this season, Mendez-Laing will be a big reason why, if he can continue his excellent year then there is no reason why he can't singlehandedly send Paul Warne's side back to the Championship.