Paul Jewell admits his numerically stretched squad is partyly of his own doing - but says it will all go towards helping the Rams rebuild for next season.

The gaffer currently has nine professional players out on loan at Football League clubs and has found his options limited at times in recent weeks.

But with loan fees and savings in wages added to his budget for next season, Jewell is looking at the wider picture.

He told an interview now being screened on RamsWorld: "Injuries and loans mean our squad is very stretched, but the loan scenario is down to me.

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"I have probably put myself under a bit of pressure by letting all these players go out on loan.

"But the reason I've done that is I'm looking ahead - all the money we save, all the loan fees we get in, go towards my budget for next year.

"I would rather have 11 points this year and suffer the abuse, the humiliation, and then be able to have a concerted effort.

"As much as I hate losing, as much as I hate being beaten at home and being bottom of the league, if I can take this pain now and put it towards a stronger push next year I'll take it."

Mo Camara (Norwich), Michael Johnson (Notts County), Craig Fagan (Hull), Gary Teale (Plymouth), Lee Holmes (Walsall), Stephen Pearson (Stoke), Lewin Nyatanga (Barnsley), Mitch Hanson (Port Vale) and Stephen Bywater (Ipswich) are currently on loan at other clubs.


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