Derby County are unbeaten in their last three games and have picked seven points in that time. Next, they host Bristol City at home. Just the three points separate the third from the sixth so a loss for the Rams in this fixture can have massive ramification on the table. Bristol City held Norwich to a draw in the last game, so they do have it in them to come out with something from this tough away tie.
Derby County have been in and around the playoff spot but they are yet to hit top gear, and they have struggled with consistency in getting back to back positive results. Frank Lampard would like his team to come out of that, and a good performance at home would solidify their promotion credentials.
Team News
Bradley Johnson is suspended from this tie for his violent conduct in the Stoke City game earlier. Curtis Davies and Craig Forsyth are long-term absentees for the Rams. Mason Bennett and Marcus Olsson are also unlikely to see any more action this year. Joseph Ledley could be closing in on a return.
Derby County predicted lineup vs Bristol City
Formation (4-3-3)
Defence
Former England international Scott Carson is once again expected to start in goal. He is going to be shielded by the centre-back pairing of Richard Keogh and Fikayo Tomori. The former is a Chelsea loanee, and he has formed a decent partnership at the back with Keogh.
Scott Malone is an offensive left back, and he provides width to his side when he pushes up the pitch. He is once again expected to start. Jayden Bogle is also of a similar mould and has provided some crucial assists this season. He is going to reprise his usual right-back role.
Midfield
Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Tom Huddlestone has been the mainstay of Derby’s midfield this season. His primary job is to protect the back four and also set up a base for attacks. Craig Bryson has also been Lampard’s go-to man in midfield, and his mobility across the pitch is crucial to the side. Mason Mount is going to complete the midfield three, and he has the onus to create opportunities from midfield.
Attack
Harry Wilson is a nailed on starter, and the Liverpool loanee has been the major difference maker in quite a few games so far this season. He is expected to start on the right flank. Florian Jozefzoon is going to be appearing in his usual left wing spot. Last season’s League One top scorer Jack Marriott is once again expected to lead the line for the Rams.
