Derby County host Millwall at Pride Park this weekend but one player who will be absent for the clash through injury is former Rams transfer target Kenneth Zohore.
The Denmark international was linked with a move to Pride Park last summer.
Then Derby boss Phillip Cocu was keen to find a replacement for the popular Chris Martin as the striker joined Bristol City following the end of his contract in the east Midlands.
According to the Northern Echo, Derby, Sheffield Wednesday and Middlesbrough all wanted Zohore who cost West Bromwich Albion some £8 million in 2019.
But it was Millwall who won the race for his signature as he joined the Lions on loan.
Zohore’s season at the Den, however, has been hampered with injuries.
The former Cardiff City striker was absent for the game against Derby earlier in the campaign, and he looks set to miss the upcoming encounter at Pride Park too.
Zohore picked up a muscle injury in the 2-1 win at Reading last month. Millwall boss Gary Rowett suggested it was a minor issue, but the striker hasn’t played since.
It’s a blow for the Lions who certainly look a better side with Zohore leading the line.
The 6ft 4inch striker is strong on the ball, good in the air and links play. Millwall were undefeated in his last five games, including beating Sheffield Wednesday 4-1.
Derby head into the encounter winless in four. Wayne Rooney has improved the situation at Pride Park, but a notable lack of creativity and goals remains a problem.
The Rams haven’t scored in their last three games, while only seven points separates them from the bottom three with Rotherham United having three games in hand.
The reverse fixture at the Den was Derby’s first victory under Rooney as Jason Knight scored the only goal that day. A repeat result would be most welcome.
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