Derby County have confirmed two academy signings, bringing in former Crystal Palace striker Zach Marsh and former Watford player Zach Van Der Graaf to strengthen their youth development pipeline. The moves come as the senior side, sitting 23rd in the Championship with six points from ten games, looks to build for the future. The team has conceded 19 goals while scoring just 9, leaving them with a minus 10 goal difference.
Marsh, 21, joins the Rams' under-21s after a successful trial period following his summer departure from Crystal Palace. He scored twice in two outings for the U21s during that spell. The striker contributed significantly in Premier League 2 with Palace, registering 11 goals and 10 assists in 35 appearances, and was named in a handful of senior matchday squads without making an appearance.
Van Der Graaf, aged 16, has signed a two-year scholarship with Derby's under-18s after a trial in September. The left-footed attacking player left Watford in the summer and is described as an exciting prospect who takes the ball under pressure and looks to create.
Academy manager Jamie Smith welcomed the pair. "We are delighted to welcome two further additions to the Rams’ academy ranks," Smith said. He added of Marsh: "Zach Marsh joins the club having spent a successful development period with Crystal Palace, contributing significantly in PL2." Regarding Van Der Graaf, Smith noted his technical ability and potential to develop within the club's system.
The signings reflect a clear commitment to academy development, a focus that persists despite the first team's challenging start. Derby's recent form reads two draws and three defeats from their last five matches, including a 1-0 home loss to Stoke City on Saturday 17 October. That result followed a 4-1 defeat away to QPR on Wednesday 14 October, where Lars-Jørgen Salvesen scored a late consolation. The team's record this season stands at one win, three draws, and six losses.
Other academy products are already gaining valuable experience elsewhere. Cruz Allen is on loan at Halifax, where he scored recently, Owen Eames is with Falkirk in Scotland, and Dajaune Brown has three goals and two assists for Rochdale in League Two. Marsh will join the under-21s and Van Der Graaf begins his scholarship with the under-18s immediately. The club views these external loans as a vital part of the pathway, preparing players for potential first-team challenges ahead.
Background and full detail: derbytelegraph.co.uk
