Paul Jewell told us he'd have to rip the Rams squad apart and he's certainly done that, I've almost lost track of all the comings and goings.

The confirmation of the signings of Rob Hulse and Polish international Przemysław Kazmierczak brought Paul Jewll's acquisitions to eleven. He said he was going to have to take the squad apart and rebuild it and he's certainly done the first part.

I was chatting with a work colleague and between us we couldn't name all the new faces, the rebuilding has been so radical. The situation was so bad though that it was required. The difficult part comes next as PJ attempts to knit them back into a cohesive and competitive squad.

It's always a gamble when you bring any new player into a squad, whatever his pedigree and with such a huge upheaval at Pride Park, it's anyone's guess how it's going to turn out. Although many might be slightly underwhelmed by some of the names coming into the club, including myself to some extent, it's pretty clear to see what PJ's plan has been.

Pretty much everyone he's brought in has a point to prove in some way and that's good. There seems to be better balance to the squad and I'm looking forward to seeing how they knit together.

Although I can't honestly say he's invaded my consciousness previously, I'm particularly looking forward to seeing how Przemysław Kazmierczak fits in. Don't ask me why but all summer I've been hoping PJ would bring in an Eastern European player. I'm not sure what I'm looking for, a little bit of "no nonsense flair" maybe, if that's not a contradiction in terms. I just have a sneaking feeling "Kaz" may just become a firm favourite with the fans. Let's hope I'm right.

It's likely to take a while for all these new players to fit in. Pre-season games are going to be important in that process but equally, that time will be significant in how they fit together off the field and build team spirit.

It may take a few games for us to find our feet and a bit of patience may be required but a few good results will speed the process along. I'm looking forward to seeing how this squad develops and more than anything, I'm hoping being a Rams fan will be enjoyable this coming season.

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