The stage is all set as a drama is set to be unfolded when Derby County take on Middlesbrough in a very crucial match in the Championship. Boro are set to enjoy their home comfort as Derby needs to put a very solid display in front of the vociferous Boro supporters at the Riverside Stadium.
Both sides are at same points and are rubbing their shoulder in the Championship points table but the away side have a little advantage as they have a match in their hand. Derby will have a glorious chance to make an entry into the playoff zone if they manage to get the better of Garry Monk’s side in this match.
Only one loss in the last ten matches speaks volumes about their quality and both the team will be coming to the match on the back of some convincing display in the last matches.
Derby shrugged off the challenge of QPR while Birmingham City proved to be no match for Middlesbrough.
Predicted 4-2-3-1 Derby County Starting Lineup Vs Middlesbrough
Defence
Scott Carson will be looking for his consecutive clean sheet in this match. The 32-year-old has been pretty decent with his reflexes and saves beneath the posts.
Veteran defender Curtis Davies will be ready for a showdown as Boro have a pretty good attacking lineup and they will come to all guns blazing in this match.
Another experienced Championship player Richard Keogh will be in the deep defence to rear guard the backline.
Craig Forsyth and Chris Baird will play their trade on the left side and right side of the defence respectively.
Midfield
Tom Huddlestone has been a regular performer for the Rams this season and the defensive midfielder will be one of the few players upon whom Gary Rowett will be depending heavily.
Joe Ledley will be looking for this big game to make his presence felt. Whenever the Wales international has played for the Rams this season, they haven’t lost a match. So Ledley will be there to keep the record intact.
Attack
Andreas Weimann has been quite impressive with his work rate on the right-hand side and will be up there again.
Tom Lawrence can be very effective from the left side and he will try to combine with the other attacking players.
Sam Winnall is doubtful as he picked up an ankle injury so David Nugent will continue playing up front. Playing just behind him in the No.10 position will be the efficient attacker Matej Vydra.
