Tom Ince has been an inspiration to the Rams side since his loan move from Hull City, so much so that Rams boss Steve McClaren has said he would like to keep Ince on a permanent basis next season.
How much of that is a smoke screen for his expected departure to Newcastle, or whoever in the Premiership at the end of the season remains to be seen.
It can't be denied though that Ince has been a key player during a very difficult time for the Rams. Since he joined in February he has scored ten times in just sixteen appearances, including two on his debut for the Rams and a brace yesterday against Huddersfield.
Steve McClaren has not yet spoken to Steve Bruce about a permanent move to Derby but this could be a real possibility, especially if the Rams win promotion through the play-offs this time around.