Three players who will benefit the most from Steve McClaren’s return to Derby

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We take a look at three players that could start to flourish after the appointment of McClaren as Derby County manager.

Steve McClaren’s return to Derby County has certainly divided opinion among Rams fans.

Some are surprised and confused by the former Newcastle’s return. However, many Derby fans are hoping that this might spell the beginning of a return to form, with the Rams having notably played their best football under the former England manager’s command.

Here are three players we think will benefit the most from the Mac’s return.

Craig Bryson

One of Derby County’s longest-serving players, Bryson has been right at the heart of the team since the days of Nigel Clough. The Scotsman’s best years, however, have undoubtedly come under the management of McClaren.

Bryson played a key role in Derby’s journey to the play-off final in McClaren’s first season, and played a major part in Derby’s demolition of Nottingham Forest, scoring three of the five goals.

Since McClaren’s departure, Bryson’s form has never quite matched what fans saw under the former England manager, and so it could be expected that the Scot will be one of the most pleased to see his former boss back.

Will Hughes

Under Nigel Pearson, Will Hughes, who most Rams fans would suggest is the team’s best player, had been forced to play a much deeper midfield role, being forced into a lot more defensive work as part of the two in a 4-4-2.

In contrast, under McClaren’s popular 4-3-3, a system that has worked very successfully for the Rams, Hughes will be allowed to go forward more, performing as more of an attacking midfielder – his best position.

Derby fans will be looking forward to seeing a free-roaming Hughes once more under McClaren’s second tenure.

Tom Ince

First joining the club on loan from Hull City, Tom Ince experienced his best spell at Derby during his short stay under McClaren. Smashing into double figures for goals and assists in just a few months, Ince won the hearts of many Derby fans and, despite McClaren’s exit, the club signed him permanently.

Since joining the club full-time, Ince has struggled to consistently find that form which won so many Rams fans over, but with McClaren’s reinstatement as Derby boss, many are hoping that this will spark the former Liverpool and Blackpool midfielder into action.