Max Bird signs new Derby County contract

Highly rated young midfielder Max Bird has signed a new contract with Derby County. The 18-year-old, considered one of the finest prospects in the Championship, has been persuaded to dedicate his long-term future to the Rams.

Bird, who made his debut for Derby aged 16 in September 2017, has developed under boss Frank Lampard and will now stay at the club until 2024. Under the tutelage of Lampard, Bird is confident that he can help his club to the Premier League and also England international recognition of his own.

Bird has played two Championship games this season, making his league debut against Swansea City on the 1st December coming on for fellow England prospect Mason Mount.

There are rumours that both Chelsea and Man Utd have deployed a scout to monitor the progress of Bird, and that they are happy with what they have seen of the 6 foot midfielder.

Bird is comfortable playing as a deep-lying playmaker, in the middle of the park or in right midfield, and it is this versatility that makes him one of the best young players in the Championship today.