Derby County were reportedly interested in signing West Bromwich Albion's Mikey Johnston during the recent transfer window. The Irish winger stayed with his club and has since suffered a serious knee problem that will keep him out long term. The Rams, who sit 23rd in the Championship with just 6 points from 11 games, have far more immediate concerns than pursuing an injured player.
Johnston has featured only in a cup match this campaign. He initially moved to West Brom on a temporary basis before the transfer was made full. Given his current injury status, Derby are not expected to resume their chase for him in January.
Derby's January priorities
Head coach John Eustace is focusing on strengthening his defense when the market opens to aid the team's battle against relegation. The Rams are near the bottom of the Championship table after a difficult start to the season, having managed just one win, three draws, and seven defeats. They have suffered consecutive losses, including a narrow home loss to Stoke City on Saturday 17 October. Their recent form shows zero wins, two draws, and three defeats from their last five matches, a run that includes a heavy 4-1 defeat away to QPR. Their defensive record has been a particular concern, with 20 goals conceded against just 9 scored this season.
The squad's present challenges show why recruiting an injured player would not solve their pressing problems. Attention now turns to an upcoming away match against Sheffield United on Saturday 24 October, which presents a key chance to gain points against a side currently 11th in the table.
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