Paul Warne has been dealt some excellent news as one of his key Derby County players is set to return during the international break.
Following three Championship defeats on the spin, Derby County returned to winning ways on Saturday with a 2-0 win over QPR.
Paul Warne dubbed Curtis Nelson an ‘unbelievable performer’ after he scored an incredible header in that victory while new signing Marcus Harness bagged his first goal for the Rams.
This was Derby’s fourth home win of the season, leaving them 12th in the table heading into the international break.
Warne can be satisfied with how they’ve started life back in the Championship and he can also be pleased by one emerging injury update.
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Paul Warne dealt promising David Ozoh injury update
Derby have been without midfielder David Ozoh for four matches now, with the 19-year-old missing defeats to Sheffield United, Norwich City and Sunderland along with Saturday’s win over QPR.
Ozoh suffered a hamstring injury in last month’s win over Cardiff City at Pride Park. The Englishman was expected to return after the international break, and that hope has now turned into a reality.
As per journalist Leigh Curtis, the Crystal Palace loanee should be ‘back in training’ next week alongside fellow midfielders Liam Thompson and Tom Barkhuizen.
Speaking after Saturday’s victory, Warne said, as per Derbyshire Live: “Liam Thompson and Tom Barkhuizen are back this week. David Ozoh will be back next week, but Millwall may be too soon for him.”
Thompson and Barkhuizen returning to action is positive for the Rams but they’re seen as rotation players whereas Ozoh established himself as a key starter before his injury.
- READ MORE: Derby County told Paul Warne is really missing one ‘big player’ this season as QPR claim made
David Ozoh’s return is massive for Derby
In the build-up to their clash against QPR, EFL pundit Sam Parkin explained how much of a ‘big player’ Ozoh is for Derby, and that has proven to be the case.
The 2005-born midfield powerhouse showcased his ability as a tackling machine, ranking second in the Championship for tackles per game (3.8) while demonstrating his outstanding ball-carrying attributes.
Ozoh’s ‘unreal’ display in the win over Bristol City was a flavour of the performances he could produce and he’s consistently delivered.
A crucial cog in the heart of Warne’s midfield, Derby have missed his presence, particularly in defeats against the Blades, Norwich and Sunderland.
The incredible midfield talent helps his side retain possession and win it back, with the youngster proving to be one of their most eye-catching summer arrivals.