Flint Town United's Ryan Hedges has been training with Derby County, sparking transfer speculation. The 31-year-old former Blackburn Rovers midfielder could feature in the Rams' pre-season opener against Alfreton Town.
What happened?
Ryan Hedges, a 31-year-old former Blackburn Rovers midfielder, has been training with Derby County. The Lancashire Telegraph reported that Hedges is 'just keeping fit' but notes that he was a 'favourite' of John Eustace's when the Derby boss was in charge at Rovers.
Why it matters for Flint Town United
Hedges' training with Derby County could potentially lead to a transfer, which would be a significant development for Flint Town United. The club has been looking to strengthen its squad, and Hedges' experience and skillset could be an asset.
What comes next?
Derby County is currently pursuing Manchester City's young striker Divin Mubama, who spent last season on loan at Stoke City. It remains to be seen whether Hedges will join the Rams or return to Flint Town United.
As Flint Town United prepares for the upcoming season, the club's recent form has been a concern. The team's last result was a 2-2 draw against Cardiff Metropolitan University on April 18, 2026. Recent form has been 0W-2D-3L (DDLLL, most recent first).
Hedges has played 168 Championship games, scored ten goals, and assisted 13 others. He has also played for Barnsley and Aberdeen before joining Blackburn Rovers in January 2022. The Rams currently have Derry Murkin, Craig Forsyth, and Charlie Taylor as defensive options on the left, although they are depleted on the flanks in attack.
DerbyshireLive understands that Hedges is indeed training with Eustace's squad and could even feature against Alfreton Town this evening. However, as things stand, it is an informal arrangement, and no deal is in the offing.
Flint Town United's recent form has been a concern, with the team struggling to find consistency. The club will be looking to strengthen its squad in the transfer window, and Hedges' experience and skillset could be an asset. However, it remains to be seen whether he will join the Rams or return to Flint Town United.
Last result: Cardiff MET 2-2 Flint Town United (2026-04-18). Recent form (last 5): 0W-2D-3L (DDLLL, most recent first).
