Kemar Roofe's Move to Derby County
Kemar Roofe, the former Rangers striker, has signed a fresh deal with Derby County, bringing his expertise back to the English Championship. This short-term contract runs until the end of the 2024/25 season, reviving Roofe's presence in English football after his stint in Scotland.
Roofe, now 32, departed from Rangers in June 2023. His tenure at the club wasn't without challenges, as he experienced numerous injuries, yet he still managed to hit the back of the net an impressive 38 times over 102 appearances. The decision to leave Rangers came after the club, guided by manager Philippe Clement, opted not to renew his contract.
Why Derby County?
The decision to join Derby was heavily influenced by several factors. Roofe regards Derby County as a club with significant prestige and top-notch facilities. Additionally, the presence of the club's new manager, John Eustace, played a pivotal role in his decision-making process. Familiar faces also helped nudge Roofe into the Derby fold—such as Keith Downing, his former youth coach at West Bromwich Albion.
Notably, Roofe emphasized how, during his eight-month gap from the professional pitch, he diligently maintained both physical fitness and mental toughness. He pointed out that his preparations involved daily training routines, ensuring he would be ready for such an opportunity.
A vital check before his first match lies in obtaining international clearance, which is required for him to debut with Derby County. If everything goes smoothly, fans could see him in action against Millwall on February 23.
Throughout his career, Roofe has not only delivered goals but has also collected silverware. With Rangers, he celebrated victories in the Scottish Premiership, the Scottish Cup, and the Scottish League Cup. Beyond his time at Rangers, his football journey also includes notable periods at Anderlecht and Oxford United—before making a Championship mark with Leeds United from 2016 to 2019.
