Paul Warne is set to face a selection dilemma ahead of Derby County’s clash with Millwall.
Derby County will be hoping to build on their brilliant 2-0 home victory against Queens Park Rangers following the international break.
Despite such a positive start to the 2024/25 Championship campaign, the form on their travels has simply not been good enough, and Paul Warne will be hoping that his side can put an end to four away defeats in a row in the second tier so far.
Whilst the Rams have been somewhat depleted as of recently due to injury issues, one key player is nearing a return and could likely be involved straight after the international break as they face off against Millwall, which will bring out a decision that Warne will have to make in regards to selection.
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Callum Elder return will spark Derby County selection issue for Paul Warne
Derby County full-back Callum Elder has been ‘terrific’ at times for the Rams so far in the 2024/25 Championship campaign, and he has clearly managed to successfully make the step up to the second-tier following promotion from League One.
However, injury sparked issues with the defender, and seasoned professional Craig Forsyth had to slot in, to which he has done with success. He managed to bag a goal and an assist in the home defeat against Norwich City, whilst also proving to be a dependable defender for Warne’s side.
The 35-year-old full-back has started two games this season, including playing a full 90 minutes in the recent 2-0 win against QPR.
Paul Warne selection decision gives obvious outcome
Whilst it was unexpected that Forsyth would be able to slot into the side and prove to be solid at the back at the age-of-35, it would make little sense for him to retain his place in the side if a fully fit Elder is waiting in the wings.
Like the situation involving Jacob Widell Zetterstrom and Josh Vickers earlier on in the campaign which saw the Swedish shot-stopper come in for the backup goalkeeper, despite him being in top form, Warne will likely not read into Forsyth’s recent form as at the end of the day, Elder is the number one choice at left back and that is unlikely to change at this moment.
Forsyth can certainly continue to be a crucial cog in the dressing room, whilst also providing an impact from off the bench as he did at the start of the 2024/25 Championship season, but any overload of game time at this level could certainly be too much for a player at 35-years-old.