I appreciate the concerns raised about the future of Derby County. I know how important football clubs are to local communities, and I appreciate how worrying it is to see them under jeopardy.
The situation facing Derby County FC is worrying for fans, the local community and football alike. To echo the comments made by my ministerial colleague when this was raised in the House of Commons on 18 January 2022, “no one wants to see a founding member of the Football League in administration and facing threats to its survival”.
As you know, the English Football League (EFL) has given the club until 1 February 2022 to put forward details of a funding plan rest of the 2021/22 season or it could face expulsion. This follows the club entering administration in September 2021 due to significant debts, which also resulted in a 21 point deduction. The administrators have tabled some options that are available to them. I understand that some bidders are interested in purchasing the club, and I very much hope that those conversations reach a successful conclusion as quickly as possible.
While the governance surrounding the administration of Derby County football club is a matter for the EFL, the administrator and the club, I am encouraged that the Government is taking a close interest and Ministers are receiving regular updates. I understand the Sports Minister has urged all parties involved to take a pragmatic approach to securing the future of the Rams.
I will follow any developments closely.