Darren Randolph may lose his place at West Ham if they sign Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford – but could Derby County come to his rescue?
If, or indeed when, Sunderland finally succumb to Premier League relegation, losing their star man will only rub salt into the wounds. Yet, at least The Black Cats can ease their financial crisis somewhat by making £15 million from the sale of local-lad goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
The Daily Mail report that West Ham are the latest club to show an interest in the 23-year-old after a stellar breakthrough campaign in the North East. However, this could have major ramifications for the players already at Slaven Bilic’s disposal.
According to The Sun, Spaniard Adrian will remain at the London Stadium with the club deciding to trigger a contract extension. Therefore, fellow shot-stopper Darren Randolph looks the most likely of the duo to depart in the summer despite impressing when given the opportunity this season.
However, if he is on the lookout for a new club in the summer, perhaps he could be handed an opportunity by a manager who knows him well.
Gary Rowett knows all about Randolph’s qualities following their time together for Birmingham City and there is an admirable mutual respect between player and manager. The Republic of Ireland international went as far as admitting that Rowett rescued him from the ‘lowest point’ of his career after taking over at St Andrews, as reported by the Daily Star.
After all, Randolph had conceded eight to Bournemouth just a few days prior.
Rowett, meanwhile, described Randolph as ‘excellent’ and ‘one of the best in the Championship’, as reported by the BBC.
Rowett’s new club, Derby County, may be able to call upon the experienced Scott Carson but, with England youth international Jonathan Mitchell still just 22, The Rams may prioritise a back-up option in the summer.
And Randolph knows from his time at West Ham what it takes to fight for your position. He would surely not be scared of doing the same again.
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