Derby County take on Coventry City at St Andrew’s this weekend in a game which could have big implications near the bottom of the Championship table.
The Sky Blues are currently three points above the drop zone in 20th position, while Derby are a further three points in 18th ahead having played a game less.
A win for the Rams could move them well clear of the danger zone.
But Derby will have to perform much better than they did in the 4-0 defeat at Cardiff City in midweek where Wayne Rooney made a surprising number of changes.
Some Derby fans speculate Rooney made six changes as he wants to keep his better players fresh for the trip to Coventry. If that’s the case, the Rams are under pressure to perform.
Here is how we believe Derby will line up:
Goalkeeper Kelle Roos is likely to retain his spot with David Marshall recovering from injury, while Nathan Byrne should come back in at right-back.
Moving Andre Wisdom back into the middle sees Teden Mengi drop out, while fellow loan players George Edmundson and Beni Baningime are also likely to drop to the bench.
Jason Knight and the energy he offers was a huge miss against Cardiff. The Republic of Ireland international should come back in with Max Bird also recalled.
Louie Sibley just hasn’t got going following Wayne Rooney’s appointment as sole manager. The youngster has plenty of talent, but he doesn’t seem favoured at present.
Kamil Jozwiak and Martyn Waghorn will likely take up roles on the wing.
Colin Kazim-Richards was also rested against Cardiff, and Derby missed his presence. Aside from his goals, the popular striker is brave, determined and links the play well.
Derby’s most fluid performances this season have arguably come in a 4-3-3 system. Coventry like to get the ball down and play, therefore it could be quite an open game.
Also see: ‘Under no illusions’: Coventry skipper gives honest assessment of Derby ahead of clash
Also see: Report: ‘Special’ Derby talent wanted by Leeds and Moyes tipped to move clubs this summer