Opinion: Derby County star could be Stockport County's ideal Paddy Madden replacement
08/05/2024 16:44
Stockport County will need to replace Paddy Madden this summer, and they could do far worse than looking at Derby County for their new talisman.
Stockport County marched towards the League Two title this campaign, securing 1st place by four points to confirm their spot in League One next season.
Club captain and top goalscorer Paddy Madden hit 22 goals across all competitions as the Hatters once again moved up the football pyramid. However, the 34-year-old will not be playing his football at Edgeley Park next term.
As per the Stockport County retained list released on Monday afternoon, Madden's contract will not be renewed, bringing an end to the striker's heavily successful four-year spell with the club. He scored 64 goals for the club in 154 games, with 22 of those coming this season.
In preparation for their first spell in the third tier since 2010, Dave Challinor's side must now focus on strengthening up top. And, Derby County talisman Collins could be the answer.
Collins' availability
Derby County are yet to release their retained list, so as it stands Collins is out of contract this summer.
The striker signed for the Rams from Cardiff City on a free transfer at the beginning of the 2022/23 campaign following the East Midlands outfit's relegation to League One.
Having put pen to paper on a two-year deal, the former Republic of Ireland international may soon see his time at Pride Park come to an end having helped guide Paul Warne's men back to the Championship.
Over 98 appearances for Derby County, the former Cardiff City and Luton Town man has scored 31 times and registered a further five assists.
Undoubtedly a player with pedigree at this level, it is unclear whether or not the Rams will stick with Collins following their promotion and Stockport County should form part of the queue to capitalise should he be let go.
Crucial experience
The Hatters have high ambitions, and they will not be entering the third tier just to make up the numbers.
Recruiting a player with Collins' level of experience, not to mention he is a player coming off the back of a strong season in front of goal, could prove pivotal. With six promotions on his CV already, the Coventry-born ace is bound to be hungry for more. Now at 33 years of age, his next move may well be his last dance.
After Madden's release, it would make perfect sense for Stockport County to find a similar replacement with an experienced head on their shoulders and Collins could be that man.
A model professional, The Derby County striker is a model professional and would be an excellent example to the younger members of the side and would likely flourish with the opportunity to be the main man once again.
Collins has all the attributes to be a success at Edgeley Park, so Stockport County should certainly await the Rams' retained list with their fingers crossed in case a deal becomes possible.
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