Derby County are currently making the most of the international break, which has allowed manager Paul Warne to focus on recovery and fitness.
The Rams aim to improve their Championship standing after a tough start, and a short break certainly helps. With no immediate match pressure, the team’s primary focus has shifted to rehabilitation, and the break comes at a crucial time as several players are working their way back from injury.
The Rams have struggled with consistency on the road this season, and they are hoping to turn things around in their upcoming clash against Millwall. Warne, whose side will be eager to pick up their first away points, will be pleased to see some of his key players returning to fitness. Injuries have plagued Derby County over the last few weeks, but with some encouraging updates, a stronger squad is expected to be available after the break.
Paul Warne will be relieved to have a near-full squad at his disposal, with a few players making significant progress. The Millwall game, set for 19th October, could provide the perfect opportunity for the Rams to get back on track.
Key Player Injuries and Return Dates
The international break has allowed Derby County to focus on the rehabilitation of key players, many of whom are closing in on their return. Ben Osborn, who suffered a hamstring injury during the Rams’ defeat at Sunderland, is expected to be fit and available for the Millwall clash. Warne described the injury as minor, which means the midfielder could be ready to make an impact in the next match.
David Ozoh, on loan from Crystal Palace, has been out with a hamstring problem since the Rams’ win over Cardiff City. Although he is due to return to training next week, the Millwall fixture may come too soon for him. The 19-year-old has impressed since joining Derby, making seven appearances in all competitions. However, the midfielder will take his recovery one step at a time, aiming for full fitness in the coming weeks.
Another crucial player nearing a return is Callum Elder. The Australian defender was forced off with a groin injury against Sheffield United. Elder’s recovery has progressed well, and like Osborn, he is expected to be available after the international break. His return will provide much-needed depth in Derby’s defence, which has faced challenges in recent games.
Further Updates on Injured Players
Paul Warne has also provided updates on Tawanda Chirewa and Tom Barkhuizen. Chirewa, who suffered a quad injury, is expected to be sidelined for four to eight weeks. The injury, described as “freakish” by Derby’s medical staff, is uncommon, meaning the club is taking a cautious approach to his rehabilitation. Barkhuizen, meanwhile, is set to return to training this week after recovering from a calf strain.
Liam Thompson, another key player for the Rams, has been battling a groin injury sustained during training. Like Barkhuizen, he is expected to report back to training soon, boosting Derby’s options in midfield. Warne will be eager to see how both players progress in training ahead of the Millwall clash.
Impact on Derby’s Season
The return of these players comes at a crucial time for Derby County. The Rams have had a mixed start to the season, particularly in their away fixtures, and Warne will be keen to have a fully fit squad as they look to climb the Championship table. With eight players either recovering or close to fitness, Derby’s depth and versatility will be enhanced as they push for better form.
David Ozoh’s return will be especially significant, as the Crystal Palace loanee has added a dynamic presence to the midfield. His energy and vision have been missed in recent weeks, and his ability to drive the team forward will be crucial as the season progresses. Warne’s men have shown resilience at home, as evidenced by their recent 2-0 victory over QPR, and the manager will hope to replicate that form on the road.
Derby County’s next challenge, Millwall, is a pivotal opportunity to break their away duck this season. As Warne has mentioned, “Getting these players back is like having new signings.” The return of experienced figures like Osborn and Elder, coupled with the emerging talents of players like Ozoh, could be the catalyst for Derby to turn their season around.
In conclusion, the international break has allowed Derby to regroup, focus on fitness, and prepare for the remainder of the season. With a host of key players on the verge of returning, the Rams are poised for a much-needed boost as they face Millwall, aiming to secure their first away points of the campaign. Paul Warne will be hoping his injury-hit squad can bounce back and put in a strong performance.
Founder and Editor-in-Chief at The Real EFL, Gary is a passionate Lincoln City fan with extensive content creation across the Championship and EFL. He also shares expert football betting tips.
