Derby have intensified their pursuit of Stockport striker Liam Dickinson with an improved offer.

The Rams had a £250,000 bid for the 6ft 4in striker turned down earlier this month - a sum Stockport manager Jim Gannon described as "derisory".

Derby boss Paul Jewell told the Derby Evening Telegraph: "Sometimes these things take time.

"We made an offer for him and we've made an improved offer for him. We're still waiting to hear back from Stockport.

"Liam Dickinson is a young player at 22. He's big, strong, quick and hungry. He fits the bill.

"I think one thing that was lacking at Derby last season was hunger. I take blame for that as well. There was a lack of hunger, a lack of desire, a lack of passion."