This afternoon Derby faces fellow strugglers Blackburn Rovers in a near bottom of the table clash, with both teams needing a win to inject some hope and belief into their season.
Derby huffed and puffed in their efforts against Liverpool but within the first five minutes the result was inevitable as The Reds took control and Derby struggled to pose any real threat on their goal. As soon as Liverpool scored the tie was over. Both teams made several changes, but the gulf in class was too much.
Derby are likely to bring back Wilson, Anya, Bryson and Vydra with Bent, Baird and Johnson going back to the bench. Weimann and Anya may occupy the wings, as Derby need to go all out attack to win this game. Anything less will be a travesty. However, Pearson may stick with Butterfield and use Weimann as an impact sub.
Carson is set to return to goal in place of Mitchell, after suffering illness this week. Shackell is still likely to be out but Russell may return to the bench, although he may be saved for Tuesday's game at Cardiff and not risked.
For Rovers Ex-Manchester United defender Wes Brown could in the squad as he recently signed on a free transfer. This is because defenders and defensive cover in Henley, Wharton, Ward and Mulgrew are all out injured.
Blackburn won their only league game of the season at home to Rotherham 4-2 in their last outing. Danny Graham could be back from injury but will have to settle for a place on the bench if fit. Emnes and Gallagher will lead the attacking options and Akpan will provide necessary support.
Match Prediction:
This is the first of two big games for Derby. Home to Blackburn and then away to Cardiff on Tuesday, who are also struggling. Both teams currently sit below Derby and some fans will rightly think if we cannot win these, then what is the point?
Blackburn have conceded two or more goals in six of their eight league games so far which should give Derby belief and confidence that they can score.
Derby to win 2-0 and just creep over the line.
Derby 1 v 0 Blackburn
24th February 2016 - iPro Stadium
Derby 3 v 1 Blackburn
Pride Park Stadium - 11th January 1998
Nigel Pearson welcomes the return of important players for this clash.
Jacob Butterfield knows his team needs to start getting results.
COYR!!