The Big Match Preview: Wolves vs. Derby County

The Rams face relegated opposition for the second time in five days as they travel to the Black Country and Wolverhampton.

Nigel Clough's men go into the game with only one point from their opening two league games having conceded late goals in all three matches so far.

Despite losing £14 million striker Steven Fletcher, Wolves will be sure to mount a promotion challenge this season with proven Championship performers like Sylvan Ebanks-Blake and Stephen Ward still in their ranks.

Nigel Clough is not worried despite his side's meagre one point haul so fa this season: 'We are not concerned at this stage,' Clough said.

'Yes, we have one point from two league games, but we know how good the players are and how honest they are as well - we just want them to get their rewards sooner rather than later.

'If we were playing poorly, not creating chances and not being in games, then we would be concerned.

'But we are creating chances, we just need to take them when we are on top in games because if you don't it can come back to haunt you - as we have found out in the last three matches.

'The rub of the green has been against us, which is very hard to take, but if the players keep playing and keep believing then their luck will change.

'The energy, the commitment and what the players are giving us cannot come into question, so if they keep doing that - and crucially take our chances when we are on top - the results will come.'

Matt Jarvis has been sold to West Ham and will force Wolves into a change. Skipper Karl Henry will also miss out having limped off the pitch during the home win over Barnsley.

Ebanks-Blake may not have been able to cut the mustard in the Premier League but his record in the Championship speaks for itself.

In his last two seasons in the second tier he scored a combined total of 48 goals.

Top scorer Jake Buxton may return to the defence after missing out on the Bolton defeat through illness.

Last season's top scorer Theo Robinson may also feature after improving in training in the last week.

Big Irish striker Sammon will have to be key man for Derby this season following his £1.2 million move from Wigan Athletic.

Following Steve Davies' departure to Bristol City, he will have to be The Rams' main goal threat in 2012/13.

Derby's last matches:

Sheffield Wednesday (h) 2-2

Bolton Wanderers (a) 0-2


Wolves' last matches:

Leeds United (a) 0-1

Barnsley (h) 3-1

Derby vs. Watford, Sat 1st September 2012, nPower Championship

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