Derby County V Bolton Wanderers Preview

Article by e-Derby County Correspondent Chris Harrison

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Following the home defeat to Millwall just a few days ago, Derby have had a short period of time to put things right to be ready for the match tonight. In comparison, Bolton come into the game high on confidence following the 5-1 win away at Leeds. Bolton also have only lost one game in their last 6 matches against the Rams and will be hoping for more of the same. Derby’s last win against Bolton came over 12 years ago in a 3-1 win at the Reebok arena.

Derby will go into this game with no new injury concerns and will welcome back Chris Martin, following his one match suspension. Following the lack of chances created on Saturday Martin would look to be returning straight to the starting XI. The Rams may also look to make changes to the midfield and wingers also. With quick games in succession it may prove valuable to bring in fresh legs.

George Thorne, the West Bromwich loanee, could make his debut for Derby in place of Jeff Hendrick, or the more experienced John Eustace may return. Derby will likely to be unchanged in the back 5, an area that has been Derby’s most consistent in team selections during the season.

Chris Eagles looks to miss out with an eye injury, the news will be a boost to rams fans as Eagles holds an impressive scoring record against the East Midlands side. The Wanderers are likely to be unchanged that beat Leeds convincingly at the weekend.

Derby will be looking to return to winning ways to put the pressure on the top 2 teams and the chasing pack. With Burnley picking up a vital win at rivals Blackburn, to extend their lead over the rams to 8 points, Derby cannot afford to drop any further points. If Derby have any chance in getting automatic promotion they must win their remaining home games whilst picking up points on the road.

Following this game Derby face a tough end to the month, with Away matches at Reading, followed by Forest at Home and Ipswich away. If they are to start a run to the end of the season, tough games like this will need to be won. Bolton will also be looking for only their 3rd win on the road since Boxing Day if they have any chance of a late surge for the playoff spots.

Prior to Saturdays result Derby season was built on beating teams in the bottom half of the table, convincingly. Derby must get back to what worked well and playing the vibrant football that got them to 2nd spot at Christmas.

Can Derby beat Bolton and collect the 3 points that gets them back on track for promotion? We shall find out tonight!

Come on you Rams!

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