Jewell increases striker bid

Derby boss Paul Jewell has increased his bid for Stockport striker Liam Dickinson after a £225,000 was turned down.

Jewell is looking to build a squad good enough to win automatic promotion back to the Premiership at the first attempt but he needs to find more money if he is to land the Stockport striker.

"Sometimes, these things take time," said Rams boss Paul Jewell. "We made an offer for him and we've made an improved offer for him. We're still waiting to hear back from Stockport.

"Liam Dickinson is a young player at 22. He's big, strong, quick and hungry. He fits the bill. But we're also looking for other players to come into the side.

"I suppose the signings we've made so far haven't had people jumping out of their seats as far as their names are concerned but I think one thing that was lacking at Derby last season was hunger.

"I take the blame for that as well. There was a lack of hunger, a lack of desire, a lack of passion.

"I think the players we've signed will certainly improve the squad in terms of that and they're also good players too."