How crucial will Agyemang be in promotion push?

[BBC] [Getty Images] One player who has particularly impressed this season in black and white is Patrick Agyemang. Since arriving at Pride Park from Charlotte FC last summer, the American has netted 10 times, whilst also registering three assists. Arguably, his most impressive performances have come from the left hand side, where he has played an inverted winger role and regularly bullied his way past opposition full-backs to get into the box and create chances.

With Carlton Morris' lengthy absence from the team earlier on in the season, Agyemang was also on hand to adapt to being the main 'number nine' for Derby, a role which he more than rose to the challenge of, and continues to flourish in. It's fair to say Agyemang has probably been Derby's signing of the season. With most opposition fans commenting on his impressive performances against them throughout the campaign, and regularly expressing their desire to have a player like him in their team.

As is the case with most strikers though, Agyemang has recently suffered a dip in form, and is now seven games without a goal or assist for the Rams. A run which has left him visibly frustrated during matches. This has been paired with some tough physical battles with opposing defenders, where often a lot of grappling and holding has resulted in him hitting the deck, or being illegally dispossessed, without referees consistently picking up on it.

Adding to not only his frustrations, but supporters' too. Despite this, he has had joy on international duty with the USA this week, scoring once in a 5-2 defeat by Belgium, in which he played 19 minutes from the bench. For me this goal could kickstart a significant shift in his confidence and form, which could be a defining factor in the Rams' end to the season.