Chelsea boss Frank Lampard (Getty Images)
Derby County played out a rather stale 0-0 draw against Nottingham Forest in the Midlands derby yesterday in the Championship and the Rams are set to face a tough test when they play host to Bristol City on Saturday.
The Rams currently sit 4th in the standings with 38 points from 22 games, seven points shy of leaders Leeds United and the onus will be on them to bag all three points this weekend.
Bristol City drew 2-2 against Norwich City in their last outing in the Championship and the Robins will be hoping to get something out of this away fixture.
Mason Bennett (hamstring), Marcus Olsson (cruciate ligament), Curtis Davies (Achilles tendon) and Craig Forsyth (cruciate ligament) are all long-term absentees for the Rams while Joseph Ledley is doubtful to play a part this weekend due to a hip injury.
The veteran shot-stopper pulled off a couple of important saves against Forest and has always been a reliable presence between the sticks.
The 18-year-old rose to the occasion in the Midlands derby and put in a solid shift at the back.
He showed all his experience in the last game and looked solid at the heart of the defence.
The Chelsea loanee put in a solid shift at the back in the derby game and should be amongst the starters for this one as well.
He struggled to cope with Joe Lolley in the last game and Derby will need him to put up a better defensive display at the weekend.
The former England international looked good with his passing and distribution against Forest and he continues to be one of the key figures in central midfield for the Rams.
The youngster had a decent game against Forest and has been one of the first names on Lampard’s team sheet this season.
He battled away in midfield and showed plenty of resilience in the derby game.
The Liverpool loanee has been one of the stars of the season for the Rams and they will need him to deliver the goods once again this weekend.
He wasn’t at his best in the last game but has been a prominent figure in Derby’s attack and should start on Saturday.
Derby will once again bank on their talisman to find the net against Bristol City.