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The decision to sack Stam seems obvious, in many ways. Our terrible run is well documented, and you only have to look at the table to understand that we haven't been good enough this season. There is, however, a lingering doubt in my mind about whether it was the correct decision.

You only have to look at the players to know that the Dutchman was almost universally loved and admired. As I mentioned back in September - Stam was the heart of this team. Players who wouldn't have had a second look at Reading suddenly found themselves donning blue and white hoops. I'm certain that defensive additions wanted to learn from a world class centre-back, and the motivations for the Dutch contingent seem obvious.

I would love to be wrong, but I can see this causing a further dip in form where the players have lost morale. Yes they 'should be professional', but sometimes life isn't that simple. A change of management can be tumultuous in any occupation.

The style wasn't well received by the fans, but it's worth noting that Stam has said multiple times that the tepid, dull football that was on display isn't necessarily the way that he wanted to play. Obviously, he is ultimately responsible but why then bring in Paul Clement - a man who Derby fans have very little love for due to his style of play.

Should Clement make an immediate impact, and we win tonight's game, then the decision will be a good one, at this point there's no place for sentimentality, but if it takes time to adjust to his style we'll be in even worse trouble.

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