Derby County kicks off their Championship campaign on Friday night.

The Rams will travel to Ewood Park to face John Eustace’s Blackburn Rovers in one of the two opening games of the 2024/25 Championship season, with Sheffield United facing Preston in the other.

For Derby County, this marks their return to the Championship after two years in League One. Manager Paul Warne will have the opportunity to test his newly revamped squad, which includes eight new signings, notably the return of Ebou Adams.

In an in-depth interview with *The Telegraph*, Warne discussed the club’s summer transfer activity and shared his thoughts on the upcoming Championship season.

Despite some predictions that Derby County might struggle after their promotion from League One, Warne and many fans remain quietly optimistic about a strong season.

Warne also outlined some of the disciplinary measures in place for his players this season, including one particularly significant fine.

During the interview, Warne revealed that the team brings a large Derby County badge to every away game, placing it on the dressing room floor. Any player who steps on the badge faces a “massive fine.” He added that lateness is another issue he takes seriously, with instant fines imposed for being late to meetings, as indicated by a light outside the meeting room. Additionally, mobile phones are banned in the canteen.

Warne’s no-nonsense approach could provide Derby County with a crucial edge as they face the challenges of the Championship. While some pundits have predicted Warne’s potential dismissal this season, citing his previous struggles in the Championship with Rotherham United, this Derby County squad appears more balanced and ready for the challenge. Warne’s strict rules underscore the importance of discipline as the Rams aim not only to avoid fines but also to secure their place in the Championship.