Kirchner Derby bid collapses

DERBY were plunged into new crisis last night with Chris Kirchner’s bid to buy the club set to collapse. The US businessman was named preferred bidder for the League One club but has been unable to complete the deal. With former Newcastle owner Mike Ashley waiting in the wings, the Rams must hope a new buyer comes forward with only five senior players under contract at the club, who have been in administration since September.

An EFL statement last night read: ‘The EFL is incredibly disappointed with this evening’s announcement by Derby County’s administrators that Chris Kirchner has failed to complete the purchase of the club.’ Administrators Quantuma have given Kirchner a new deadline of 5pm today to complete the deal.