Derby V Millwall Match Preview

Article by e-Derby Correspondent Chris Harrison

Most fans would put this game down as a straightforward win based on the league position of both teams. With defeat in last week’s game at Burnley, Derby need to get back to winning ways to keep in touch with the second place team. With only 13 games remaining and Leicester running away with top spot 2nd place has to be the aim for the Rams. But with Millwall only 1 point above the relegation places they will be just as desperate for the points.

With only 1 defeat in the last 6 games against Millwall the points would look to be staying at Pride Park. With Derby’s impressive 5-1 away win at Millwall earlier in the season, under Clough, it would be hard for the home fans not to get excited.

Due to Chris Martin’s suspension it would be likely that Conor Sammon will come in his place to lead the attack. After his second half performance last Saturday his first start under Steve Mclaren would be fully deserved. It will be interesting to see if Patrick Bamford will make the starting line up as he showed a good understanding with Sammon. It’s quite refreshing for a Derby side to have so many attacking options waiting in the wings to support the first team when required.

Derby will be boosted with the return to fitness of Craig Bryson and Jamie Ward who were only fit enough to make the bench last weekend. This may see Jeff Hendrick and Johny Russell drop to the bench to make room for the pair. If Mclaren looks at the more attacking style of play it may see John Eustace replaced by Bryson.

Derby’s back four is likely to be unchanged after 3 clean sheets in the last four games. Jake Buxton has been in impressive form and has been given the nickname “Buckenbauer” for his recent passing exploits from the back. Craig Forsyth will be boosted with his recent nomination for player of the month and hopefully will take this into the next match.

All of this is positive news for Derby and the fans no longer go into games nervous of the opposition or due to players missing. We have a squad capable of competing at the top end of the table with replacements ready to step in and provide the same standard of performance. It would be very disappointing if Derby couldn’t take all 3 points from Millwall with the next home game against Bolton coming up in quick succession. With only 4 points separating Derby from 4th placed QPR (who have a game in hand) a win would leave further breathing space and relieve any pressure from the chasing pack below.

Prediction: Derby County 3 Millwall 0

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