Derby County are edging closer to their day of destiny with two matches of the season left to secure promotion back to the Championship.
Derby is heading to Cambridge United, aware that securing just four points would elevate them to the Championship, irrespective of other match outcomes. They recently triumphed over Leyton Orient 3-0, benefiting from Bolton Wanderers’ draw against Shrewsbury Town, which aids their promotion push.
Despite their success in away matches against lower-ranking League One teams, facing Cambridge United poses a challenging obstacle, given the latter’s need for a victory to secure their safety.
Before the game, Paul Warne’s team received a boost with several key players set to return from injuries, though Joe Ward will miss the final two matches due to a knee injury, adding to the injury concerns at Pride Park.
Regarding the players set to make a comeback against Cambridge United, academy graduate Max Bird has been training all week, and left-back Callum Elder is preparing for a return. Additionally, on-loan Arsenal striker Tyreece John-Jules has been cleared to rejoin Derby and aims to feature in the squad against Carlisle.
As Bird is set to play his final two matches for Derby, Warne faces a selection challenge as he considers potential changes for their upcoming game against Cambridge.
Derby County predicted XI v Cambridge
Joe Wildsmith retains his goalkeeper role against Cambridge, while Warne opts for a back three featuring Sonny Bradley, Eiran Cashin, and Curtis Nelson, who excelled in their recent match against Leyton Orient. This defensive trio provides a solid foundation, with wing-backs Kane Wilson and Louie Sibley adding width.
In central midfield, Ebou Adams and Korey Smith offer stability and energy, though Warne may consider bringing in Max Bird in attacking midfield. However, Liam Thompson’s solid performance against Orient could see him retain his spot.
Upfront, James Collins partners Nathaniel Mendez-Laing as they aim to bolster Derby’s attacking threat, with Collins eyeing a 20-goal milestone this season.
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