Derby County have an opportunity to go top of League One when they travel to Reading tonight.
Derby head into their fixture against Reading in fine form. The Rams are unbeaten in 12 of their last 13 matches but did succumb to a goalless draw against Lincoln City last time out.
On the evidence of the statistics, Paul Warne’s side were wasteful when the opportunities did arrive.
According to Sofascore, Derby only landed three of their 19 attempts on target, whereas Lincoln managed to draw Josh Vickers into making four saves.
There were issues with fashioning opportunities at the top end of the pitch and Louie Sibley – who was making his first start since the 1-1 draw against Wycombe Wanderers in December – was at the heart of their struggles going forward.
Despite starting as a left-back for the U21s in the 11-1 victory over Notts County, Warne opted to use him in the hybrid role as an attacking midfielder/second striker against the Imps.
Unfortunately, the 22-year-old failed to take his chance after recording just a 73% pass completion, one key pass, winning zero ground duels and losing possession 11 times.
Sibley replaced Arsenal loanee Tyreece John-Jules for that match and Warne must now reverse his decision by starting the striker for tonight’s trip to Reading.
Why Derby County must unleash Tyreece John-Jules tonight
John-Jules has suffered through a horrendous time with injuries at Derby, but the club showed their confidence in the 22-year-old by extending his loan to the end of the season. Warne must now repay that confidence by starting him against the Royals.
Once hailed for his pace, off-the-ball movement and finishing by talent scout Jacek Kulig, John-Jules can provide Derby with attributes that Sibley can’t.
The Arsenal youngster can use his blistering pace to drag defenders into the channels and therefore open up space for James Collins to pounce.
In a system where Collins is undoubtedly the main man, John-Jules can act as the perfect foil. He can do all the hard running and pressing for his strike partner while acting as the ultimate distraction.
Derby also struggled to break down Lincoln’s rearguard and they could encounter a similar problem against Reading. The Royals are unbeaten in four of their last five and Warne will need someone to stretch their defence.
As a willing runner in behind, there aren’t many better than the “incredible” John-Jules, who can show his worth to the Rams by being awarded a starting spot ahead of Sibley tonight.