Pre-Season Preview: Burton Albion vs. Derby County

The Rams will get their pre-season programme up and running with a friendly against local side, Burton Albion.

Derby have close links with The Brewers: Nigel Clough spent a decade as manager there whilst former Derby favourite Paul Peschisolido is the man at the helm at the Pirelli.

Derby have made a whole host of signings in the summer and fans are optimistic about the season to come. It remains to be seen whether the wholesale changes will be a success or a Paul Jewell style failure.

Whatever happens, it's good to back.

Rams manager, Nigel Clough, is keen to give his whole side a run out: 'We will be taking as strong a squad as we can to give people game time,' said Clough, speaking to Rams Player.

'The squad will be split so everyone will get 45 minutes.

'We want everyone to get game time under their belts and dust the cobwebs off.

'The two sides that will be out there will be evened out so there's a mixture of youth and experience in both of them.

'It is good for the young lads to be in and amongst the first-teamers. That is the best way for them to improve.'

Burton haven't made many signings during the close season, but striker Calvin Zola and winger Cleveland Taylor, signed from St. Johnstone, look sure to make an appearance.

Striker Zola has an eye for the spectacular. He scored a memorable goal for his former side, Crewe, during a game against Bradford City. If you can, get on the internet and search it out.

Derby's summer signing and partner for centre-half Shaun Barker will not feature due to a calf strain sustained in the early stages of pre-season training. The stopper joined The Rams for a substantial fee from Championship Barnsley and was 'born to defend' according to manager Nigel Clough. He will have to wait at least a week for his first taste of action in a Rams shirt, though.

Nigel Clough has stated his wish to field two different teams during the game, with both elevens being given 45 minutes to prove their worth for the coming campaign. Certain exceptions, like Craig Bryson, may feature for the full 90 due superior fitness but Rams fans will get the chance to see a plethora of Derby players.

Ex-Forest forward Tyson has split opinion following his move from the enemy down the A52. He has been given the No9 shirt this season and will play as an out-and-out striker, something he rarely did at Forest. It will be fascinating to see how he does in a Rams shirt following his idiocy the season before last at the City Ground.

Jamie Ward

Frank Fielding

Theo Robinson

Craig Bryson

Nathan Tyson

Chris Maguire

Adam Legzdins

Jason Shackell

First Pre-Season fixture.

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