As 2023 draws to an end, the January transfer window will soon be open for business.
It is a time for clubs to reassess their squads to determine whether a piece is missing from the puzzle of promotion or avoiding relegation.
On the other hand, prized assets may be set to leave, especially if their contracts are ending.
This is precisely the case with Derbys highly regarded centre-back, Eiran Cashin.
At only 22 years of age, the defender has yet to sign a contract extension; it has been reported that numerous EFL Championship sides and Premier League outfits, including West Ham and Brighton, are showing interest.
In this tactical analysis and scout report, we will assess Cashins importance at Pride Park and explain why he is in such high demand.
Furthermore, our analysis will also evaluate potential transfer options to replace the defender and how such potential new arrivals would fit into Derbys tactics.
Eiran Cashin Style Of Play
A product of the Derby youth system, Cashin first broke into the first team in 2021, when the Rams were still playing in Englands second tier.
Since Derbys relegation to League One, Cashin has been virtually an ever-present at the back.
He is regarded as a luxury because he is a left-sided centre-back.
However, he has been known to occupy the right-hand side of the central figures in a back four or even operate in a back three.
For the majority of this campaign, he has featured in the heart of a back four with the more experienced Curtis Nelson.
The Derby backline boasts one of the best defences in the division, and Paul Warnes side is within the playoff positions.
Derby have only conceded 17 goals so far this season.
Only league leaders Portsmouth have conceded fewer.
With such a strong defence, it is not surprising that Cashin is ranked highly compared to his peers in League One this season.
Eiran Cashin Radar Chart
The pizza plot shows Cashin is within the 84th percentile for percentage of defensive duels won and within the top 10% for defensive positioning when compared to other left-sided centre-backs in the division.
Paolo Maldini once said, If I have to make a tackle, then Ive already made a mistake .
Cashins strong defensive positioning ensures he is a strong reader of the game, as evidenced by his ability to intercept the ball successfully.
