Derby County host Southampton in the FA Cup this coming weekend.
Derby County take on Premier League side Southampton this weekend in what should be a highly competitive FA Cup third round clash with both sides looking to build on their recent momentum.
The Saints come into the game having picked up seven points from four games under newly-appointed manager Ralph Hasenhuttl, including a 0-0 draw at Stamford Bridge in midweek.
Derby beat Southampton 3-0 in a pre-season friendly, and they’ve fared well against top-flight opposition in the Carabao Cup having beaten Manchester United on penalties before losing 3-2 at semi-finalists Chelsea.
The Rams come into the game having taken four points off Championship promotion rivals Norwich City and Middlesbrough over the past week, though they are likely to make changes for this one.
David Nugent could start upfront in place of Jack Marriott as manager Frank Lampard must have one eye on next Friday’s huge Championship clash against league leaders Leeds United at Elland Road.
Duane Holmes was excellent when he came off the bench against Boro, and the former Scunthorpe United ace deserves to start with Mason Mount another potentially going to be rested ahead of the Leeds trip.
Andre Wisdom should keep his place in the XI but may switch over to his natural right-back position, allowing academy product Max Lowe to come back into the side following his return from his loan spell at Aberdeen.
Lowe became a popular figure at Pittodrie but Derby’s injury crisis at left-back has forced Lampard to recall him early, while Craig Bryson could return to the side after being sidelined for the past two matches.
Here is how we think Derby County will line up:
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