Derby face Stevenage at Pride Park this weekend following an impressive midweek display away at Exeter, as the Rams ran out 3-0 winners. Derby played great football on Tuesday night showing what damage they can do on the counter-attack against an Exeter team who had been in great form.
Team Selection for The Rams
Stevenage will be a very difficult task for the Rams as they will be prepared to sit deep and compact and will be prepared to let Derby have the ball and will limit the Rams’ attacking chances. Derby are likely to play with a back four of Callum Elder, Eiran Cashin, Curtis Nelson and either Ryan Nyambe, who will provide more defensive solidity, or Kane Wilson. Who will provide the Rams will more attacking creativity and flair going forward? That's a big question and something Derby may need against a well-organised and hard to break down Stevenage side.
Tom Barkhuizen, who scored Derby’s 3rd away at Exeter, is also likely to return to the starting XI as who showed an attacking spark on Tuesday night after coming on for Corey Blackett-Taylor who came off at half time with a tight hamstring. Blackett-Taylor is a doubt for Saturday.
There is also an anxious injury wait on the fitness of striker James Collins. Derby's front man went for a scan on a knee injury he picked up during the match against Exeter.
Opposition Analysis
After promotion from League 2, Stevenage have looked a very strong outfit in League One and turned over Derby earlier in the season.
Jamie Reid has been a stand out for them this season, netting 17 goals this season in the league with one assist.
What happened last time?
These two teams last played in October 2023. Stevenage won 3-1 despite having less possession and shots then The Rams.
Stevenage Form:
LDLWW
Derby County League Form:
WDWWL
Closing Thoughts:
Steve Evans’ side will be very difficult to create chances against, break down and beat. However if Derby are clinical with their chances and key players like Mendez-Laing are at their best, The Rams should have enough to see off Stevenage.
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