Derby County manager Phillip Cocu says midfielder Krystian Bieik has trained ahead of the trip to Blackburn Rovers but a decision will be made on Friday over his involvement.
The Poland international missed last weekend’s draw with Queens Park Rangers.
(Photo by Nathan Stirk/Getty Images).
Bielik was named in the starting line-up against QPR, but he was withdrawn shortly before kick-off as a precaution after picking up a cited muscle injury during the warm-up.
Many Rams supporters will be hoping Bielik is involved at Ewood Park. But Cocu will seemingly assess him on Friday and make a decision then, telling dcfc.co.uk.
On Krystian Bielik, Cocu added: “Krystian participated in most of the training session today which we are happy about but we will wait until tomorrow to decide if he will be available on Saturday.”#BRFCvDCFC pic.twitter.com/lgJx0Mw0e2
— Derby County (@dcfcofficial) December 5, 2019
Bielik has gradually become one of Derby’s most important players.
The Rams signed the midfielder for a reported £10 million fee from Arsenal. At first, he was deployed in central defence before stepping up to midfield.
While Bielik is versatile and can play in both roles, he is a far better midfielder. The 21-year-old averages 2.9 tackles and 1.9 interceptions per Championship game.
Derby missed his presence against QPR. Bielik pressures the opposition in possession, makes tackles and is a key player when it comes to initiating quick counterattacks.
With Graeme Shinnie also out injured, the Rams lacked bite and aggression last weekend. George Evans stepped in, but he’s not a physical midfielder.
(Photo by Lewis Storey/Getty Images).
Phillip Cocu’s side head to Blackburn looking for their first away win since the opening day of the season. Rovers, meanwhile, have won three straight league games.
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