Rams boss Steve McClaren has provided an injury update ahead of Sunday’s big match.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Derby County manager Steve McClaren has said that he is hoping to welcome back Darren Bent and Max Lowe for Sunday’s clash with local rivals Nottingham Forest.
The duo missed last weekend’s 1-0 win at Wigan through injury, but are likely to have recovered in time for Sunday’s noon kick-off.
Derby’s Darren Bent scores their first goal
“They should have recovered by the weekend and the extra day in terms of preparation has helped as well,” he said.
“We had a few niggles, as you do, after the Wigan game and they should be fine as well – I am expecting to have everyone available apart from Nick Blackman, Cyrus Christie, George Thorne and Craig Forsyth,” he added.
“On the plus side, Nick Blackman is close to returning to training and that will either be later this week or early next week.”
Derby’s Max Lowe and Cardiff’s Craig Noone in action
Bent’s return would be a boost for the hosts, as the former England striker has scored twice in his last three appearances and – like the team – has improved since McClaren’s return to the dugout.
The Rams are looking for their sixth successive league win this weekend, but they will be conscious of the fact their rivals have also improved in recent weeks.
Derby’s upturn in fortunes means they go into the weekend just two points adrift of the play-off places, with the top six now a realistic target again after their recovery from a dreadful start to the campaign.
Derby manager Steve McClaren
McClaren had a mixed record in his side’s derby games during his first spell with the Rams – the memorable 5-0 win in March 2014 was his only victory in the fixture, with Forest coming out on top twice in McClaren’s previous stint.
Times have changed at both clubs since those days, however, and the former Newcastle boss will be focussed on ensuring his current crop of players are fully prepared for Sunday’s challenge.
Should Bent start if he is fit? Who will take the bragging rights in the East Midlands? Leave your thoughts and predictions below.
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