The Big Match Preview: Derby vs. Burnley

The Rams go in search of back-to-back wins for the first time this season as they welcome early strugglers Burnley to Pride Park Stadium.

Burnley sit in 19th place on six points having registered two wins - one coming against Lancashire Rivals Bolton Wanderers, the other against basement club Peterborough United.

They have conceded 11 goals in their five league games this season despite signing Rams centre-back Jason Shackell in the close season, and could be vulnerable if Derby play the attacking football which has seen them notch an impressive fifteen goals in just four home games this term.

Midfielder Craig Bryson, who netted his first goal of the season against Charlton on Tuesday night, is relishing the challenge of Burnley on Saturday: 'Burnley are a very good side but are finding it hard at the moment. However, I am sure they will come to Pride Park looking to get the win - just like we will.

'The Championship is one of the hardest and most competitive leagues in England, anybody can beat anybody and if you are not on the top of your game you can get turned over.'

The Rams may receive a boost in the striking department following the news that young forward Mason Bennett is back in contention following a thigh strain.

Fellow striker Nathan Tyson may also be in line for a place on the bench after recovering from a throat infection which kept him out of the Charlton victory.

Ward has taken up his 'new' striker role very well and in The Rams top scorer on three - he has also hit the woodwork on a couple of occasions.

Ward is probably the most naturally gifted attacker at the club and creates as well as he scores and will be looking forward to locking horns with former teammate Jason Shackell.

Star-striker Charlie Austin may miss out with a bruised hip.

It would be a big blow for his side as he has registered six goals this term including a hattrick against Peterborough.

Midfielder McCann always seems to impress at Pride Park and is a mainstay in the centre for Eddie Howe's Burnley.

Although he has had his injury problems, Howe gave him the Burnley captaincy and he continues to serve his club well.

Derby's last five:

Bolton Wanderers (a) 0-2

Wolverhampton Wanderers (a) 1-1

Watford (h) 5-1

Huddersfield Town (a) 0-1

Charlton Athletic (h) 3-2


Burnley's last five:

Middlesbrough (a) 2-3

Huddersfield Town (a) 0-2

Brighton & Hove Albion (h) 1-3

Peterborough United (h) 5-2

Leicester City (a) 1-2

Forest vs. Derby, Sun 30th September 2012, 13:15, nPower Championship

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