Derby on brink again as Kirchner misses new deadline to buy club

DERBY were fearing liquidation once again last night after Chris Kirchner missed another deadline to complete his proposed takeover of the club. The Rams have been in administration since September and there are doubts about how the club will continue to be funded unless a new buyer comes forward. It remains unclear if US businessman Kirchner’s bid can be revived. As recently as Thursday his camp were confident a deal would be done, but Derby’s best chance of being rescued now looks likely to come from elsewhere. ÷GARETH BALE has criticised the ‘crazy’ schedule, saying it is wrong that Kevin De Bruyne could play almost 80 games next season. Bale’s Wales face De Bruyne’s Belgium in the Nations League tonight. ‘Someone mentioned De Bruyne could play 79 games and have a three-week break,’ said Bale. ‘It is too much. It is impossible to play at a high level for that number of games. Something has to change.’ ■PREMIER LEAGUE clubs have signed up to an anti-breakaway owner’s charter. It is hoped the charter will keep the Big Six, who wanted to guarantee themselves European football each year, in check by declaring that sporting merit rather than a coefficient system will determine who qualifies. ÷EFL TEAMS will be able to wear away or third kits at home from next season to help fans who are colourblind. The amendment will also allow sides to mix and match elements of their kits to avoid clashes. ■SOUTHAMPTON have named Ruben Selles as Ralph Hasenhuttl’s new No 2. The 38-year-old will join subject to work visa clearance.