Derby County chairman Adam Pearson admits plans are underway to help manager Billy Davies "spend big" in January.

"It's my job to ensure the club can compete on a level footing," he told The Times. "I intend to bring significant investment in by Christmas to give us the option of deciding whether to spend big in January or June. If we're in touch of retaining our Premier League status as the window opens, we will back Billy Davies significantly.

"If we're in a difficult position, we may decide to wait until June, when it could make a massive difference to another promotion bid. Billy needs an environment where he is supported financially and emotionally. I'm going to give him both."