So now we know. Bielik out for at least six months and clearly unavailable for the rest of the season.
Bad luck on the player and hugely disappointing for fans who were looking forward to seeing the spine of a Derby side reinforced by the presence of both Rooney and Bielik operating together.
Sadly it’s not to be...not till next August at least, but what are the implications for this season?

One of the advantages of Bielik in the squad was that he could operate in both midfield and provide cover for central defence.
That cover has now gone and with neither Davies nor Clarke having exemplary fitness records we suddenly look short in that area.
Without Bielik the opportunity to play Rooney in a more advanced role is also reduced.

Seems to be the story of this season...’the best laid plans of mice and men’ and all that...but where does that leave us regarding potential signings?
Without Bielik - and with the added limitations that his absence brings - has any last lingering hope of making the top six finally gone?
If it has does that alter this season’s ambitions in terms of signings this month?
We’re almost certainly good enough - points deduction apart - to avoid going down...and almost certainly not good enough - without meaningful additions - to make the playoffs. Is there then any point in making expensive January signings or should we keep our powder dry for the summer and a concerted effort next season?