G.M's Match Preview: Rams Will Find Form Against Cumbrians In Cup Clash
Tuesday, 23rd Aug 2016 06:15 by George Martin

Derby are likely to make changes to their starting eleven as they welcome League Two side Carlisle United to the iPro for round two of the League Cup.

Derby's first half performance against Aston Villa on Saturday was nothing short of terrible, but thankfully Pearson addressed this issue at half time with a change in personnel, formation and who was playing where.

Thankfully it paid off and Derby looked more positive and more likely to score but lost some momentum when Forsyth got injured.

Johnson, Bent, Pearce and Camara could all start and it will be interesting to see if Olsson makes the squad now Forsyth is out for the rest of the season having suffered another ACL injury as he did last season. Get well soon Craig!

Injuries are starting to hit the squad as Forsyth piles on top of Thorne, Weimann and Hendrick. The game comes too early for Manchester United loanee James Wilson, who may not make the 18 until after the international break. However, to give the squad a lift, it would be good to at least see him on the bench for the game away at Burton on Friday.

Carlisle United have made a steady start to the season drawing three and winning one of their opening four league games, the win coming against Plymouth at home.

Keith Curle is likely to keep a similar starting eleven as they look to cause an upset at the iPro. He will need to decide on Kennedy or Wyke upfront and look out for Devitt to cause problems on the wing while the goal threat will come in the form of Ibhere in the final third.

Match Prediction:

Often in cup matches it is a lose, lose situation for the higher ranked teams with Derby expected to win and Carlisle having nothing to lose.

If Will Hughes plays, the Rams have a man who will retain possession and pass the ball intelligently, as shown on Saturday, he is what makes Derby tick.

If Derby pass and move how Rams fans know they can, they should have enough to beat Carlisle. An early goal will help, however an upset is always on the cards.

Derby to win 2-0 and Bryson to score