Joe Ward, a 30-year-old English midfielder, and Callum Elder are both out of contract in the summer. Ward joined Derby County in July 2023 and has a current Transfermarkt market value of €200k. According to Football League World's Derby Fan Pundit, Shaun Woodward, both Joe Ward and Callum Elder have been excellent this season. He stated that while they were League One signings, they have improved since being in the Championship. Woodward thinks that on merit, both players deserve a new contract this season, regardless of the league the team is in. He believes they would be replaced if the team made it to the Premier League but would be good squad players. If the team stays in the Championship, Woodward thinks they deserve to keep their starting positions. In his opinion, both players deserve an extension of at least one or two years.