After a frustrating and at times downright dire performance against Brentford, the Rams must move on and ensure they recapture some much needed form against Blackpool.

I am sick to death of using this phrase; but this match is a ‘must win’ match, as has every one of the last 6 matches and the 4 still to come.

Derby started like a bullet on Saturday but quickly fell away and were only revived from their coma, by a Bent miracle at the death. They will need to start like a bullet again but this time continue to fire, as just because their visitors have been officially relegated, doesn’t mean they will be ready to roll over and die.

Blackpool have not won on the road at all this season but sometimes an opponent with nothing to lose can be the more dangerous. These players will be fighting for their careers, desperately trying to give their agents something to sell, rather than slip down to League 1 with their team.

Derby should be too good for the Tangerines but the inconsistency of their form does not guarantee they will definitely be, plus as things get tighter for top 6 places, nerves will start to splinter and anything could happen… especially in when defending.

I expect the Rams to start with a similar line up to Saturday, if for no other reason that they have few other options. With Hughes serving the second game of his 2 match suspension, Bryson will keep his spot by default.

Keogh has done well enough on the right of defence but Whitbread may be drafted into the centre of defence to partner Albentosa with either Forsyth or Warnock at Left Back. For me Warnock is the better option, despite some poor crossing on Saturday, as Forsyth is a player down on confidence and seemingly a disaster waiting to happen when in possession.

Up front if Martin overcomes some hamstring tightness he will start with Bent but if not, I would like to see Ward come in as he is being criminally underused. It baffles me that Dawkins got the nod before him on the weekend, as his energy and creativity was sorely needed, especially after the exit of Russell.

Shotton and Christie should be fit enough to take a place on the bench but I would not be surprised if one of the two, Shotton most likely, fills the right back spot, especially if McClaren wants his Captain back in the heart of defence.

Blackpool will be without defender Darren O'Dea after he broke his nose on Saturday against Ipswich, while keeper Joe Lewis and defender Grant Hall remain on the injury list with ankle issues.

Otherwise I would expect the Tangerines to keep a similar team to the one that only just went down to Ipswich 3-2.

After being in front and equalising after falling behind on Saturday, Blackpool cannot be underestimated as they gave Ipswich a torrid time before finally being bettered by the Blues in the 83rd minute.

In my preview for Saturday I mentioned how important it was for the midfield to protect the back four, especially with no Mascarell, Eustace or Thorne available to sit in front of them. This was the greatest failing on the weekend and McClaren may need to address this, maybe in the form of Hanson as his energy and tackling could perhaps help Derby get on top in the middle of the park.

Then again maybe nothing will work, Derby seem low on confidence, ideas and the ability to stop the rot if their opposition get a hold of them during a match.

In saying that, Blackpool have been relegated for a reason and that reason is they are a very poor side. So with this in mind Derby must strike early, take away any fight the Tangerines have and then use the game to find some touch, knock the ball around and remember what it is like to play good football.

McClaren’s team selection will be very interesting as he tries to spark his team back into life. If Martin sits out I would love to see Russell, Ince and Ward playing behind Bent. The midfield needs spark and those three are the most likely candidates to liven things up and scare the hell out of the opposition, with Hendrick and Bryson sitting behind them as both cover for the back four and to distribute the ball to those in front.

But what do I know? Frankly after the last month or so, I feel like I know as much as anyone! It has been baffling and if we are to have a hope in hell of making the play-offs and then actually be competitive in them, something has to click soon.

Four matches against lower table opponents, who if we cannot better, proves we don’t deserve a play-off spot anyway — simple as that! These final games could be just the medicine Derby need to prepare for a play-off campaign.

With that in mind, I prescribe an at times anxious 3-1 win - with goals for Bent, Ince and Ward.

Remember if pain persists — please consult your local publican!

COYR!!

League Position / Form / Stats:

Derby: 5th - L, L, D, W, D

Derby has defeated Blackpool in their last 3 encounters and won the last 3 at home. Black pool have not won in Derby since 2009.

Derby County Polls