Out of football for nine months, Kemar Roofe resurfaces as Derby’s surprise saviour in their relegation battle

Derby County have pulled off a surprise signing, bringing in former Rangers and Leeds United striker Kemar Roofe on a short-term deal. The 32-year-old, who had been out of action for nine months, will now attempt to reignite his career and rescue the struggling Rams from relegation.

Roofe, a free agent since Rangers released him last summer, has endured a frustrating spell in the wilderness. His last competitive appearance came nearly a year ago, and his time in Scotland ended with just two goals in 24 appearances last season. Despite the setbacks, the former Jamaican international insists he has kept himself in shape, waiting for the right opportunity.

“It was down to mental strength, to get through what I needed to get through,” Roofe said, reflecting on his time away from the game. Now, he is determined to prove he still has the firepower to make a difference.

Derby fans will remember Roofe from his time at Leeds United, where he made his final appearance in English football in 2019. Ironically, his last goal for the club came at Pride Park—the very ground he now calls home—in a Championship play-off semi-final first leg. That night, Derby went on to stage a stunning comeback at Elland Road, securing a place in the final and breaking Leeds’ promotion dreams.

Since then, Roofe’s career has taken him across Europe. After a brief spell in Belgium with Anderlecht, he moved to Rangers, where he won the Scottish Premiership, Scottish Cup, and League Cup. However, injuries hampered his time at Ibrox, and by the time he was released, he had become a forgotten figure.

Now, as the first signing under new Derby boss John Eustace, Roofe faces the ultimate challenge—proving he can still make an impact at a club desperate for goals.

Derby have been woeful in front of goal, managing just four in their last 10 league games. That dismal run has left them in the Championship relegation zone, with time running out to turn their season around. Eustace knows Roofe’s arrival is a gamble, but he believes the striker’s experience could be the spark his team needs.

“He brings goal-scoring know-how,” Eustace said, clearly hoping that the forward’s pedigree will outweigh his lack of recent action.

Roofe himself appears eager to silence the doubters. “I’m here now and I’m excited to get going,” he declared, ready to embrace the challenge.

This move isn’t just about helping Derby—it’s about reviving his own career. After spending nearly a year in footballing exile, he knows this could be his final shot at proving he still belongs at this level. If he succeeds, he could be the hero who rescues Derby from the drop. If he fails, both the club and his career could be in serious trouble.