G.M's Match Preview: New Ram Nugent Will Hit The Target At Elland Road
Friday, 13th Jan 2017 07:45 by George Martin

After the heroics and elation of the 2-1 away win against Premier League side West Brom in the FA Cup, Derby faces another tough task against their old rivals and top 6 side Leeds United, in front of the Sky Sports cameras.

Steve McClaren has some interesting selection decisions to make with so many players called up for the Cup, playing well in the win. The main quandary being if he recalls Pearce to the heart of defence or sticks with Shackell who was superb against The Baggies.

Pearce may get the nod as he is slightly more comfortable on the ball, passes the ball quicker and can use either foot while Shackell is very left footed.

Although back from suspension, Hughes has not trained for nearly two weeks having suffered a knee injury. Therefore, it is likely De Sart, Johnson and Bryson will make the midfield triangle. Hughes will possibly make the bench.

Ince will continue on the right and hopefully Camara on the left as Russell was finally dropped against West Brom. Camara was effective, has pace and good crossing ability.

Chris Baird will continue at right back and Jamie Hanson at left back. Baird and Hanson will not naturally get forward so this allows Ince and Camara to go forward and express themselves, causing problems for the opposition in the final third.

McClaren must also decide whether he starts with Bent, who scored a superb goal last Saturday, or £2.5m signing David Nugent. Derby's new signing knows the division, can score goals, leads the line well and could slot straight in. Either way, it's a good problem to have.

Leeds United manager Gary Monk has done a fine job, improving a mediocre side to promotion contenders. Leeds are fifth in league, five points ahead of Derby and have a good home record.

They are very organised, defend well, but also create chances and score goals. Wood leads the line well and is a goal scorer. Birdcutt should provide quality in midfield, with Doukara and Sacko providing energy and trickery going forward. Green is likely start in goal having been rested for the cup tie win away to Cambridge United.

However, Leeds do have defensive problems with Jansson suspended, Taylor still not fit and Cooper struggling with a knock from Monday's FA Cup tie. Berardi and Ayling are likely to start in the back four.

Match Prediction:

This will be a tough game for the Rams as Leeds have a good home record. The resilience, determination and quality against WBA was superb in a fully deserved victory (despite what Pulis wrongly said!).

Leeds are well organised, have tricky wingers and do create chances. However, Derby need to take the game to Leeds and test their defence early on.

The first goal in this game could be vital and it's likely to be won or lost in midfield as both teams play similar systems.

Derby need to not lose this game as there would then be an eight-point gap between the promotion chasing sides.

A 2-2 draw with Nugent to score.