Who is Is Isaac Hutchinson? The Low-Down on Derby's latest signing!

Derby's summer recruitment drive continued today by singing Southend midfielder Isaac Hutchinson on a two-year contract. Hutchinson will link up with Derby County U-23. But who is he? We spoke with Jamie Forsyth, Co-editor All At Sea fanzine, the only Southend United fanzine to learn more about The Rams' latest recruit.

What type of player is Isaac Hutchinson?

He's an attacking player with good technical ability and an eye for goal.

What position does he play?

Attacking central midfield but best just behind the front man.

What can Derby fans expect from him?

He's a very technically capable player, good touch and likes to run at defenders. Arguably will be more at home at your level than battling it out in a poor team in the quagmire of League Two

What are his strengths? 

He has a good first touch and is a good passer of the ball. He likes to attack and take players on.

What are his weaknesses?

He's still a young lad and his decision making needs to develop. He is nowhere near as good defensively as he is going forward. Equally, he has struggled physically at times and probably could show a bit more aggression. But he's 6ft tall so this is something he can add to his game.

What has been the highlight of his time at Southend?

Scoring within a minute of coming on as a sub for his debut against Cambridge in the EFL Trophy.

Is he highly rated at Southend?

Yes, although some fans have become frustrated because he's only really shown glimpses of what he's capable of and has looked a bit disheartened of late.

Did he come through the Southend youth academy?

No, we signed him from Brighton two years ago

Is he a regular starter for Southend? Would he be a miss for the team?

He has started the first few games but to be honest being in our first team at the moment is only harming his development. It has been a very tough couple of years for us and it's probably best for everyone that he moves on.

How has he started this season? Is he in good form? Has he played many games?

Ran the show in the second half of the opening day cup defeat vs Gillingham after they went down to 10 men, but hasn't really been able to influence games since. Played the first two league games but missed last week because of his imminent transfer. In total he's played around 40 games for us.

Do you think he has the tools and ability to succeed in the Championship with Derby?

I think he'll be a good player in the future but probably will be developing in your U23s for a while. Hard to see him being a first team regular this season, but I hope he does well with the Rams.