Derby County opinion – Rams should revive interest in Matthew Pennington

It has been well documented that Derby County wanted to sign Matthew Pennington during the January transfer window (h/t Hull Daily Mail). But the move couldn’t be made as Ipswich Town, for whom the centre-back was playing on loan from Everton, didn’t budge.

However, the Rams won’t back down and will try to make a move for the player over the upcoming transfer window (h/t Hull Daily Mail). The 24-year-old is currently back at his parent club Everton after suffering an ankle injury that has ruled him out for the rest of this season.

The centre-back performed really well for Ipswich Town for the major part of this campaign. He is certain to be fit for the pre-season and start the next season normally.

Here’s why Derby should go all out and sign Matthew Pennington in the summer transfer window:

Derby could become sturdier at the back with the Everton man

Not only is he a solid centre-back, Pennington is adept in operating at right-back and perform well there. He spent his youth career in Everton and came through the ranks as one of the future prospects of English football.

However, injuries stalled his progress at Goodison Park and he had to go out on loan to Championship clubs. He played for Leeds United last season and did a decent job at the back.

This season, he played for Ipswich Town before injuring himself in the training and getting ruled out until the summer. Safe to say, the Tractor Boys would miss him as he did well for them both at centre-back and at right-back.

If we look at the numbers, Pennington has made tackles and interceptions at a rate of 1.7 and 2.7 respectively. He won 4.8 aerial duels per game, meaning the propensity to be dominant in the air and being a threat from set-pieces is present in abundance. (WhoScored)

All in all, the 24-year-old could be an ideal addition to a Derby defence that is twitchy at times. His versatility will also help manager Frank Lampard in selecting him on the basis of various requirements.

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Conclusion

Derby County would be right in reviving their interest in Matthew Pennington. They have to make sure that the deal is done this time around.