Why upcoming Forest game will define Derby's season

Derby County’s season could well be won and lost during the East Midlands derby against Nottingham Forest in a few weeks time.

Rivalries really are one of the greatest things in football and they can prove to be the biggest games of the season. One way or another it feels as if there are more than just three points at stake, and that could not be more accurate than in the case of Derby County and Nottingham Forest.

Under Steve McClaren, the Rams have slowly been progressing further up the table as they attempt to edge away from the poor start under Nigel Pearson. However, that consistency still seems to be lacking and they were fortunate to come away with three points against Wolves in their last game.

While their upcoming games against Rotherham, Norwich and Wigan will be tough, all three of those sides are extremely beatable right now.

New Derby County manager Steve McClaren poses

The biggest challenge will be hosting rivals Forest, as in previous years they have crumbled under the weight of this fixture.

In a league where momentum is everything, this could make or break Derby going into a hectic Christmas period. Forest seem to have nothing to play for already, so making a statement is going to be vital for McClaren’s men if they are still aiming for the play-offs come the end of May.

The mental factor behind a game this big is huge, and given McClaren’s tendency to fail when it matters most, a win here would show that the club and the manager are taking a huge step towards success.

General view before the match