Derby County WILL be able to start the new season in League One after club received short-term loan

Derby County have secured a short term loan from a local businessman, which will allow the stricken club to start the forthcoming season.

David Clowes, chairman of Clowes Developments, has made an interim loan, as well as acquiring the club's stadium, Pride Park, the administrators, Quantuma, confirmed in a statement issued on Friday.

In addition, Clowes, a passionate Rams fan has announced his intention to purchase the club, according to Business Live.

It comes amid reports earlier this week that Mike Ashley had taken the next step in his bid to purchase the crisis-ridden Rams by putting aside £50million to acquire the club and stadium.

The former Newcastle United owner and his group appeared set to rival former chairman, Andrew Appleby's, own attempt to save the club from liquidation. There is also reported interest fromex-Wolves owner Steve Morgan.

Derby - the club, fans and city - have been on a roller-coaster ride since the Rams went into administration in September.

A preferred bidder in American Chris Kirchner was finally announced in April, but the process dragged on and the entrepreneur finally stepped aside earlier this month when he could not confirm funds.

In the days that followed, Ashley, Appleby and Morgan have stepped up their interest, but now Clowes has entered the fray and Sky Sports has said it expects him to be named the preferred bidder.

Clowes, chairman of Clowes Developments, told Business Live: 'With a deadline looming and the start of the next season getting closer, we needed to do something.

'As a local and established property company, purchasing the stadium seemed the obvious first step. Secondly, as a proud Derby supporter, it was inconceivable to me that the Club was at risk of falling away. We've worked tirelessly behind the scenes on the stadium purchase and loan agreement to be able to get the Club going again in time for the next season.

'Players, staff and fans needed some good news, and we are delighted to play a part in delivering that.'

'It is intended that this step forward will help to alleviate some of the growing pressure, allowing more time to make the right decisions for the future of the Club. The acceptance of our offer and swift completion of a deal will also allow the Club to get ready for the upcoming season.

'Derby County can then start rebuilding a full team, confirm contracts, prepare for fixtures and allow the commercial aspects of the business to get going and start bringing in the much-needed income for the Club. Staff can plan for the next season and arguably, most importantly, dedicated fans can purchase their tickets.'

Today, a spokeswoman on behalf of the administrators confirmed the acquisition of Pride Park and that  interim funding was in place so Derby can finally prepare for the new season.

The spokeswoman said: '[We are] very pleased to be able to confirm that following a period of negotiation, Derbyshire based property group, Clowes Developments (UK) Ltd has issued an interim loan to the club.

'This loan will allow the club to start the forthcoming season, and to continue to trade.

'The joint administrators welcome the earlier statement from Clowes, in which it was confirmed that a successful acquisition of the club's stadium, Pride Park, completed on 17 June 2022 and they look forward to continuing positive discussions over the next day or so.

'All parties recognise the need to conclude a sale of the business and assets of the club, as a matter of urgency.'