Derby County manager Paul Warne has revealed that both Korey Smith and Max Bird should be available for the League One clash with Port Vale on Tuesday night.
The duo were both withdrawn in the second half of yesterday’s 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers, with Smith picking up a slight knee injury whilst Bird was alleged to have felt unwell. However, the gaffer believes both should be fit to return in midweek as the Rams continue to surge up the table.
The East Midlands side needed a last-gasp winner from Nathaniel Mendez-Laing to secure the three points after the Gas looked to have snatched a draw when the evergreen Chris Martin bagged an equaliser with three minutes remaining. The result sent Paul Warne’s side into the play-off places, where they hold games in hand on all of the teams above them.
Next up is the short trip to relegation-threatened Port Vale, who are winless in 10 League One fixtures following yesterday’s defeat at Shrewsbury Town. Despite the fitness concerns, Warne, via Derbyshire Live, issued a positive update in the aftermath of their latest win;
“Korey felt his knee and was one of those where your leg goes one way and the ankle goes the other. It was a no-brainer to put Tyrese on and that was always going to happen.
“The physio said he was okay but not right. But by the time he had walked around to the dugout he said he was okay. But it isn’t a game that I needed to carry anyone because I have a good set of players behind me. Birdy felt a little bit squiffy. He didn’t feel 100 per cent so I took him off and pushed Louie Sibley in and put Ryan Nyambe the other side. I don’t think either will be missing on Tuesday but I don’t honestly know.”
Meanwhile, speculation continues over the future of midfielder Bird, who is out of contract at the end of the season. The 23-year-old was the subject of two bids from Championship outfit Hull City during the summer and Warne believes there is likely to be further interest in January.
Writer’s View
Derby have really found their rhythm in recent weeks and have emerged as serious promotion contenders. It’s a testament to Paul Warne’s resolve, with the ex-Rotherham United boss finding himself under heavy pressure earlier in the season.
The Rams may have been one of the pre-season picks to lift the title, although they have proved that things can change quickly. They will be heavy favourites heading into the tie with Port Vale on Tuesday, and the news that both Korey Smith and Max Bird should be available will further enhance their chances.
Head of Writing
