“Experience”, “Quality” and “Pace”: Derby County’s best starting XI

Paul Warne has faced some challenges this season with his team selection. The former Rotherham United boss has tried to implement his 3-5-2 style onto the Rams but it is yet to come off.

So instead Warne has been playing a 4-2-3-1 formation which seems to suit the Rams a lot better. The dilemmas don’t end there, Warne has also faced a number of injury problems which means he’s had to select players that wouldn’t normally start.

However, his Rams side is slowly recovering to full fitness again and soon he’ll have the difficult task of working out his best XI. So as Derby look to push up the table towards the promotions spots, here is DerbyWorld’s starting XI.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

When Paul Warne has decided to play a 4-2-3-1 rather than 3-5-2, the Rams have looked a lot better and have been able to control games, especially in midfield.

Goalkeeper - Joe Wildsmith

Joe Wildsmith is arguably one of the best goalkeepers in League One and there is no reason why he shouldn’t start for Derby.

He’s bailed out the defence on a number of occassions and will continue to do so.

Left back - Craig Forsyth

Craig Forsyth has remained ever-solid in his later years. The veteran defender adds a level of experience to the back line which is ideal for young talents such as Eiran Cashin to learn from.

Forsyth is assured and confident, a leader that has to be on the pitch. He plays ahead of new addition Callum Elder here who simply hasn’t won the job from the Scot yet.

Centre back - Curtis Nelson

Curtis Nelson has been Derby’s best signing so far. He’s been solid at the back and developed a good working partnership with young star Eiran Cashin.

Nelson has featured in all 11 league games so far and it is clear to see why, a really good addition.

Centre back - Eiran Cashin

Cashin is a must-play for Derby. Even though he’s only 21, the irish international has been exceptional since he broke into Derby’s starting XI back in 2021.

He can be mistake prone, but makes up for it with his tackling. A real star, it is no suprise that he attracted interest from Premier League Brighton in the summer.

Right back - Ryan Nyambe

Ryan Nyambe was a late addition to Derby’s squad as he was brought in as a free agent in mid-September, but he’s been worth it. Nyambe can play at centre back and right back making him very versatile.

He wins the ball back constantly and has enough pace to attack down the wing.

A great late signing by Derby, he should be starting every game.

Centre midfield - Conor Hourihane

Derby County’s captain is an essential part of the side. One of the best players in League One, it is no wonder that he is on this list.

Hourihane had been recovering from an ankle injury, but he’s fully fit again now. A real quality player that has excellent vision and creativity.

Centre midfield - Max Bird

It is no suprise that Max Bird has attracted outside attention this season. The Rams received multiple bids in the summer from Hull City and will no doubt expect more interest in January.

Bird has been Derby’s best player so far this season and as he’s really playing with a confidence and swagger, he could become a crucial member of the squad as the season rolls on.

Left wing - Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

A tricky selection here because Mendez-Laing can be very hot and cold. However, when he’s on form he can be electric.

He has a mix of speed and strength that makes it virtually impossible to beat him to the ball. Definitley a spot on the team sheet that is more in doubt, but an on form Mendez-Laing can be a real difference maker for Paul Warne’s team.

Right wing - Tom Barkhuizen

Tom Barkhuizen has yet to make a big stamp on this season as he’s only just returned to the squad from injury. However, when he’s played, he’s looked good. Barkhuizen plays with pace down the wing and knows how to put the ball in the back of the net.

He’s an ideal player for a Derby side that is crying out for some attacking pace and flair. One to watch out for as a dark horse for top scorer if he can stay fit and keep his place in the starting XI.

Attacking midfield - Louie Sibley

Louie Sibley has proven to be a bit of a mystery for a number of Derby managers as they can’t seem to work out where to play him. However, the young midfielder has said himself that playing behind the striker is his best position and it seems to be the case.

Sibley has a fantastic creativity and also a real goalscoring ability going forward. He should be part of the team and allowed to roam free in attack, it would give the Rams plenty of attacking prowess thats’s for sure.

Striker - Martyn Waghorn

Derby County’s top scorer so far this season, it’s been a welcome return for Martyn Waghorn who has shown that he still has the ability to put the ball in the back of the net.

The 32 year-old even netted a hat trick against a good Peterborough side in August. He’s a more talented striker than the alternative in James Collins and so deserves to start.