Derby County face Queens Park Rangers at the Kiyan Price Foundation stadium [formerly Loftus Road] on Tuesday in what should be a tight game.
The two teams played out a 1-1 draw in the corresponding fixture at Pride Park.
(Photo by Richard Heathcote/Getty Images).
Derby have improved since then. The arrival of Wayne Rooney and the emergence of Max Bird has seen the Rams have more control in their play.
But QPR are a dangerous proposition and they like to get the ball down and attack teams. Here is how we believe Derby will line-up on Tuesday:
The starting eleven is likely to be similar to the encounter against Fulham.
Experienced fullbacks Craig Forsyth and Andre Wisdom should keep their places against the more attacking Max Lowe and Jayden Bogle for this one.
Graeme Shinnie, Max Bird and Wayne Rooney will retain their places.
The big change comes in the final third. Jason Knight could drop out, with Jack Marriott starting upfront and Martyn Waghorn pushing out to the right.
QPR are likely to dominate the ball at home. The Hoops had over 70% of the ball in their last home defeat to Bristol City earlier this month.
Derby may look to sit back and retain their shape. Marriott, however, could be a key player on the counterattack with his ability to run in behind and stretch teams.
Marriott, who cost Derby a projected £5 million from Peterborough United, has made just nine Championship starts this season. His last league start came on January 2.
(Photo by James Williamson – AMA/Getty Images).
Derby have struggled on the road. Their last trips down south to Luton, Fulham, Charlton Athletic, Bristol City and Reading saw them concede a combined 15 goals.
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