And if one of them does get a run-out, he will become the youngest player in Derby's history, with winger Holmes, at 15 years and 207 days, the most junior of the trio.

Gregory told the Daily Mirror: "These three boys figured in a closed-doors reserve match against Peterborough on Wednesday - and they didn't look out of place.

"They seemed to know their way around the pitch and have enough about them to handle the situation.

"It's terrific having youngsters like them around and although picking them in the squad has come earlier than we intended, they'll be fine. It will be a great experience.

"There's always a chance of them being involved, as with the club deeply in debt, developing our own talent is one way to build a brighter future.

"And this is the ideal week to pick them as everyone knows it's half-time in Derby!"