“His consistency was a little lacking” – Derby County fan pundit shares verdict on outgoing transfer

The 21-year-old has come through with the Rams over the last two seasons as part of Wayne Rooney’s side.

However, his appearances in the first team squad have been limited, playing 13 Championship games in that time, with only four coming as a starting berth.

Straw believes that his inconsistency of performance has seen him struggle to earn significant game time, especially relative to his young peers coming through the academy.

The Derby supporter believes that a change in scenery will help him continue his development, but claims that the Irish youth international will need to bulk up to compete in such a physical division.

“He has shown in fits and starts what he can do for Derby,” Straw told Football League World.

“He’s a regular for the U23s, he has had a few spells in the first team. He’s very talented, he’s very technical, he’s very good on the ball.

“I just think that every time he has come into the Championship he might have had one good game and then he dropped.

“His consistency was a little lacking.

“He isn’t the most strong on the ball and I think he’s that type of player that needs a little bit more of that.

“Obviously he’s only young, he could bulk out on that, then he’d be a real asset.

“It’d be a shame to see him go.

“Again, it’s a new era at Derby. Would he be a first team regular in League One? Possibly, but again, it’s a very physical league and maybe it’s just not the right time for him at this moment in time.”

Watson had his move to Luton Town confirmed by the Hatters earlier this month following the expiration of his Derby contract.

However, Derby did still receive compensation due to being a player under the age of 24.

“Obviously going to Luton, a decent club who finished well in the Championship