G.M's Match Preview: Rams To Triumph In Great Physical & Mental Test
Friday, 27th Jan 2017 07:01 by George Martin

After a superb come back and exciting win against a good Reading team last Saturday, Derby host a second successive top flight side in the F.A Cup, in the form of current Premier League Champions Leicester City.

The Rams will play The Foxes for the first time in a few years and the game will be shown live on the BBC. Derby are likely to make changes with Johnson & Butterfield back from suspension while Christie and Anya are now fit after injuries.

Johnson has a more physical presence than De Sart and gives the central back two more protection, especially in the air, so he could be recalled to the starting line up. Butterfield may come in for Bryson who is struggling with a hamstring strain. Camara or Anya could be added onto the left wing in place of Russell as they have more pace, although Russell could start with Anya or Camara used as impact subs later on.

Olsson is likely to continue at left back but there could be change at right back as Christie's extra pace and attacking qualities could be utilised. Darren Bent will keep his place as the lone striker as Nugent is still struggling with a knee injury. Pearce will be hopeful he will keep his place for this FA Cup tie having previously been rested for Shackell against WBA.

Reigning Premier League champions Leicester are having a poor season, especially away from home. Despite making some big money signings, things are not as they were last season and they are not pulling off the surprises anymore.

It was always likely that they would falter after such a huge high and the Champions League exploits, but there is a realistic possibility that they could get dragged into a relegation dog fight. They have a huge game away to Burnley next Tuesday, so may have half an eye on that when making their team selection.

Ulloa and Algerian striker Slimani are out injured so Vardy or possibly Musa could start up front. Mahrez is back from the African Cup of Nations but may not be risked. The spine of the team will be strong with Schmeichel, Morgan, Huth, Drinkwater and Wilfred Ndini all starting. The Foxes will also be motivated by the five thousand travelling fans from just down the M1.

Despite their poor season, whatever team starts, Leicester still have quality and experience in abundance and should still be favourites to win the game.

Match Prediction:

Generally, Derby have an awful record against Leicester, only winning one of the last nine meetings in all competitions. But with home advantage, confidence high and Leicester so poor away from home, this will Derby's best chance to again beat top flight opposition.

It will be a great physical, mental and technical test and hopefully the Rams will embrace the challenge and thrive on the experience.

Derby to win 2-1 and Bent to score. Enjoy the game.