G.M's Match Preview: Derby's Defence To Win War Against Forest's Forwards
Saturday, 10th Dec 2016 13:57 by George Martin

After five consecutive wins, with the most recent being a dogged away victory at Wigan, Derby entertains Notts Forest at Pride Park in front of a sell out crowd.

Whilst The Rams have gradually risen up the table, Forest too have had some good victories including recently against Barnsley and slightly more controversially beating Newcastle at home 2-1.

This run of good form by both clubs resulted in McClaren being awarded manager of the month and Lansbury the player of the month.

Derby hope Darren Bent and Max Lowe will be fit after hamstring and groin injuries respectively. With the game being played on a Sunday, it has given them an extra day, so hopefully them both being fit will give The Rams a boost. If not, Derby are likely to remain unchanged with Olsson at left back and Vydra up front.

The midfield three of Johnson, Hughes and Butterfield will hope to see lots of the ball and dominate Lansbury and Vellios. This will be a key battle. For all his detractors Lansbury is a good player and Vellios has been impressive this season.

Assombalonga is a doubt for the team in red as he has a slight hamstring strain. He may be fit enough to start on the bench. Bendtner will deputise in the lone striker role if needed.

The skilful, pacey and tricky Osbourn will operate on the right wing and will need close attention. Pereira is back after suspension but Fox and the long term injured Cohen are definitely out.

Match Prediction:

One of the league's meanest defences goes up against the second highest goal scorers in the league. Notts Forest do look dangerous going forward, especially on the break, but they also look nervy, edgy and vulnerable at the back.

The Red Dogs have won their last three games, but before that they were not in form and were sliding down the table.

The key battle will be in midfield and this is where the game will be won or lost. Lansbury and or Pellios will go for Hughes. Johnson will go for Lansbury early on.

All Derby players and the referee will need to keep cool heads.

A very tight game with Derby to just edge it 2-1, with Butterfield and Bent (if he plays) to score.