The board of struggling Derby County have told manager Jim Smith that he must sell before he can bring new blood to the squad - which could mean the end of Rory Delap's time at Pride Park.

Realistically Delap is the only asset at the club worth real money and this alone could force Smith's hand as he bids to save his job.

Middlesbrough tried unsuccessfully during the summer to sign the Irish international utility player and it has been reported that they are ready to move again for him because of their own defensive problems.

Smith would not like to lose Delap because the Irishman is one of his best performers in a poor team.

He scored the opening goal against Leicester at the weekend but the team failed to hold onto the advantage, finally losing 2-1 to stay rock bottom of the Premiership.

Money talks and if Bryan Robson puts up the greens he will surely force Smith's hand. But what of Derby if they lose Delap? It could be the end of their Premiership status.