It looks as if any permanent deal for Giles Barnes will depend on how much Derby want for the youngster.

The midfielder has seen his loan spell at Fulham disrupted by injuries and Barnes has yet to make an appearance for the first team. Manager Roy Hodgson is currently mulling over the possibility of buying Barnes but insists that Fulham won’t be held to ransom.

We’re quite happy with Giles, we think he’s an interesting player and definitely a talent. We’ll leave the decision as late as possible, and a lot of it depends on Derby and how they view the situation. It will be a question at the end of the season with what Derby have in mind and what we feel we can do.