G.M's Match Preview: Draw At Burnley May Be Best Derby Can Hope For
Monday, 25th Jan 2016 13:12 by George Martin

An out of form Derby will be hoping for a return to winning ways when they travel to face an in form Burnley team, the first of two live television games for the Rams inside five days.

If fully fit Scott Carson may return in goal and although the team conceded three goals in their last outing against Birmingham, the back four of Christie, Keogh, Shackell and Warnock should remain the same.

There are likely to be changes elsewhere with Martin and Butterfield hoping for a recall as Clement's latest formation (Reading) and starting eleven (Birmingham) did not work out.

Martin could start up front with Blackman put on the wing while Ince could occupy the other wing as Russell should be dropped to the bench. Camara will also be pushing for a start but may be better off being gradually introduced to the hustle and bustle of the championship.

The debate in midfield continues with Johnson arguably the most out of form and if he finds himself on the bench then Thorne, Hendrick and Butterfield will make up the central trio.

Bent may be recalled to the squad after bizarrely missing out against Birmingham but perhaps it was not that surprising after not even being brought on after the dismal Reading performance.

Burnley are currently playing well and scoring for fun. They have only lost one of their last seven and that was an away defeat to Hull. Although a home defeat to Preston does stick out and can perhaps give Derby some hope.

Although Burnley sold Trippier, Shackell and striker Ings since being relegated from the premier league, they have kept most of their squad together and more importantly kept their manager. They have also added the pace and quality of Ward and the experience and Barton.

They possess experience and quality in a number of positions with Heaton good in goal, Keane solid at the back and Arfield pulling the strings in midfield. They also have goals and creativity in Stokes and Boyd while Ward will be difficult to stop and Keane is a threat from set pieces.

Prediction :

This will be a very tough game for Derby. They are out of form and for once (apart from Boro away) will go into the game as second favourites. They also have a poor record at Turf Moor in the past 10-12 years.

Fans will look at the Hull away game and be hoping for a similar performance and result. The players need a confidence boosting performance after a poor run of results.

A 2-1 defeat but hoping for a draw.