Speaking to the Derby Telegraph, Derby County manager Nigel Pearson says he is not shocked that Will Hughes and Jeff Hendrick have been linked with Premier League clubs. However he maintains he will ‘do whatever we can’ to prevent key players from leaving.
Earlier today, Hughes was linked with a move to Manchester United. He missed most of Derby’s campaign last season through injury. Irish international Hendrick has been attracting the attentions of promoted duo Burnley and Middlesbrough.
Former Leicester City boss Pearson acknowledges that there is little he can do to stop players being linked with other clubs. He admits that both Hughes and Hendrick are ‘assets’ and wants them both to remain at the iPro Stadium.
Pearson was adamant that he isn’t interested in discussions matters such as this, as it is merely speculation at this stage,
“It is part and parcel of football.
“It’s something you have to deal with and also make things very clear.
“Firstly, we will do whatever we can to keep hold of our best players.
“They are assets, and if you lose your assets you lose them on your own terms.
“I have got no intention of really entering into any sort of debate regarding how things have been reported. You won’t hear me getting involved in those sort of debates.”
Both came through the Academy ranks at the Championship club. Pearson hopes to be able to call on both when the Rams start the new season against Brighton & Hove Albion on August 6th.
