Derby County's midfield has been left in disarray after the supposed signing of Birmingham City's Maikel Kietenbeld fal through due to technical issues.
The Rams thought they had captured the Brummie play-maker late on the final evening of the transfer window but now it appears the paperwork had not been properly submitted and the transfer was therfore null and void.
Tthe Rams had appealed the decision but learned earlier today (Friday 7th September) that the EFL had not upheld the appeal and so Kietenbeld must now return to Birmingham City.
With Craig Bryson and Jacob Butterfield going out on loan during this transfer window and the selling of Will Hughes before the season started, the Rams now look a depleted force in the middle of the park.
There has been no news on the possibility of any loan move to bolster the midfield at present.