Derby County face a tough encounter against Leeds United at Elland Road this weekend. Both the sides developed an infamous rivalry last season because of the spy gate saga. Phillip Cocu has since taken over at Pride Park, but the Dutch manager is yet to find any stability since he took over.
The Rams are winless in their last six Championship games which have left them just two points above the relegation zone after seven games. Their rivals meanwhile are at the top of the table and United are likely to challenge for promotion once again. If Derby wants to be in the mix, then they need to start picking up points. A visit to Elland Road will be a tough challenge, but Cocu’s men can take inspiration from last season’s improbable win in the second leg of the playoff semi-finals.
Team News: Attacking player Tom Lawrence is going to miss out due to suspension after he picked up his fifth yellow card. Jayden Bogle is closing in on a return from an ankle injury, but this clash will come too soon for him. Ikechi Anya is a long term absentee. Andre Wisdom and Craig Forsyth are still working to be a hundred percent match fit. Lee Buchanan is currently back in training.
Derby County Predicted Lineup Vs Leeds United
Formation (4-2-3-1)
Defence
Kelle Roos is expected to start in goal once again. He will be shielded by the centre back pairing of Richard Keogh and summer arrival Matthew Clarke who is on loan from Brighton and Hove Albion. 22-year-old Max Lowe is going to play from the right side of the defence, and he will look to support his team in attack whenever an opportunity arises. Scott Malone scored an early goal in the last game against Cardiff City, and he should keep his place as the left-back.
Midfield
The experienced Tom Huddlestone will start in a conservative role in midfield. Former Arsenal player Krystian Bielik should partner him.
Martyn Waghorn is expected to play down the right flank. Florian Jozefzoon could be asked to fill in for the suspended Tom Lawrence on the left-wing. American international Duane Holmes should start in the attacking midfield role.
Attack
Jack Marriott changed the game when he came on as a substitute when the Rams last played against Leeds United. He is expected to lead the line in this clash and Cocu will hope that he can be at his clinical best.
