Ryan Hedges Joins Derby County on Permanent Move
Ryan Hedges has signed for Derby County on a permanent basis, securing his place in the Rams’ squad for the 2026/27 Sky Bet Championship season. The 28-year-old winger, who spent pre-season with the club on trial, will reunite with manager John Eustace, his former coach at Blackburn Rovers.
Career Highlights and Transfer Journey
Hedges began his youth career at Everton before joining Flint Town United in 2010. After three years, he moved to Swansea City, where he played in their Under-18 and Under-21 teams. His professional career included loan spells at Leyton Orient, Stevenage, and Yeovil Town, with his first permanent move to Barnsley in 2016. He later joined Aberdeen, winning Player of the Year awards in 2020/21 and scoring nine goals in 32 appearances. After four years at Blackburn Rovers, Hedges joined Derby on trial in 2026, making appearances against Alfreton Town and SC Freiburg before securing his transfer.
International and Club Recognition
The winger earned three senior caps for Wales in 2017 and participated in World Cup Qualifiers. His performances in Scotland, including 18 goals and 14 assists in 86 outings, drew interest from Blackburn Rovers, where he made 145 appearances under Eustace’s guidance. Hedges’ return to Eustace’s coaching staff marks a significant step in his career, with the 2026/27 season set to be his breakthrough in the Championship.
