Can Derby County's Michael Jacobs be the perfect partner?

“Staffsram, good to hear your views and when you mention a midfielder capable of protecting the back 4 that is precisely what I meant by a holding midfielder for away games. No I don't see Bailey coming back as NC's mind seems made up that he will not be good enough so it is pointless suggesting any other option. Nigel gets paid to put his head on the block so we accept his decisions and I totally agree that the side has gelled very well in the months of this season. I believe most of it is down to the emergence of Will Hughes who has inspired the others particularly in midfield. That is why I beolieve it is important to retain these lads and build a team around them to take the club forward with the development of those players and that way there can be no question of them leaving unless they wish to.
This midfield 'holding' position however is not one we can fill from the present staff so that probably would take some investment and, without fringe players leaving, may not be possible on the wage budget which is a little above target as I understand it. There are definite possibilities for a tilt at top 6 next term though if our present position is handled correctly so the Forum tomorrow should make interesting listening.”

“Don't disagree with needing a holding midfielder (and please don't suggest bringing Bailey back or I''ll scream - he was and never will be good enough to fill that role).
Comparing yesterday's professional performance (and to me it was no more than that despite the 5 goals) with the display against Scunthorpe shows how much this squad has gelled in the last 6 months. They are learning fast but that's not to say things can't be improved upon by a couple on signings in key positions - for me a goal scorer and as already mentioned, a midfielder capable of protecting a sometimes suspect back four.”

“If we keep on producing talent through the Academy we won't need to shell out for anyone except to replace the existing experienced players who are dwindling in number - even Johnny Brayford is becoming an older statesman in this team. Another terrific performance against a clueless outfit yesterday it has to be said but, as the saying goes, you can only beat what is put in front of you. Once more Hughes and Hendrick sewed it all together like a patchwork quilt in the cup-tie, making Bryson's absence insignificant, and completely bamboozled Tranmere - who are actually hoping to get promoted!! Keogh and O'Brien must pray for days this easy.
If this lot is top of that table there must be a complete dearth of any quality in Division One, as it is called, as there was an absolute chasm between the sides in terms of actually playing the game. We shall not continue with such easy opposition when we get down to the Seaside on Saturday and I feel that we still need a holding midfielder to assist us in away games where we still have some difficulty.
Yesterday was made even more perfect by 5-0 coming in at 66/1 and I ensured I had some of that to ease the coming journey to the South Coast! See you all down at the Amex.”

“without doubt he reminds me of a young Kris commons but with pace ! We need to give nigel enough funds so he can pick up players like him every season but also need look abroad for talent !”