Derby County host Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday in a game which may have extra motivation for striker Uche Ikpeazu following his previous links to Pride Park.
The Rams currently sit bottom of the Championship table with just six points.
Wayne Rooney has dropped out of the squad to focus on leading the team from the side-lines following the back-to-back defeats at Bristol City and Middlesbrough.
Wycombe started the Championship campaign as favourites for the drop.
Gareth Ainsworth’s side sit just two places above Derby. It is a must-win game for the Rams, but one man standing in their way is former transfer target Uche Ikpeazu.
According to West London Sport last October, Derby and Queens Park Rangers were among the clubs eyeing a January deal for Ikpeazu following his form for Hearts.
The 25-year-old hit eight goals in 26 games during his debut season north of the border, playing an instrumental role as Hearts reached the Scottish Cup final.
Standing at 6ft 3inch, the striker is powerful and pacey. He was dubbed the world’s fifth strongest player in the FIFA 20 edition – just behind Romelu Lukaku.
But after January passed and the global health pandemic arrived, Ikpeazu’s rise was put on hold as the Scottish Premiership was suspended with Hearts relegated on a PPG basis.
Wycombe took advantage and later signed Ikpeazu in August after their playoff final win.
So far, the big striker who claims he has never lost a physical battle has been restricted to just four Championship appearances after picking up an injury.
But Ikpeazu could be back to face the Rams in what is a huge game for both clubs.
Also see: Three Derby players who may benefit as Rooney opts out, including bargain 2018 signing
Also see: £2.3m ace chased by Derby and Swansea yet to feature this term after failed October move