The Big Match Preview: Forest vs. Derby

The Rams travel to the site of the the most wonderful win of last season hoping for more of the same.

An early red card for goalkeeper Frank Fielding and a converted penalty saw The Rams up against it from the off, but a sensational comeback saw Nigel Clough's side eventually emerge 2-1 winners.

Last season Forest started very poorly but, although they lost the last game against Leeds United, Sean O'Driscoll's men have started the campaign very well and will be a tough prospect today.

Centre-back and scorer of the late, late winner in the last meeting between the sides, Jake Buxton, believes there is no reason Derby shouldn't emerge from the red side of The Trent with maximum points.

'There's a different outlook at Forest now,' said Buxton. 'They've spent a little bit of money and invested it well.

'But I believe nobody can live with us when we move the ball like we can do.

'If we move the ball like we have been doing - and have a little bit more luck in front of goal - I'm sure we can do the double over them again.'

Former Forest man Jermaine Jenas could make his second debut for the club after signing on loan from Tottenham.

Adlene Guedioura is ruled out through suspension and defender Sam Hutchinson could miss out with a knee injury.

Former Doncaster Rovers striker Billy Sharp always scores against The Rams.

He is a superb predatory striker and has a phenomenal chances to goals ratio. Jake Buxton and Richard Keogh will have their work cut out.

Derby have no fresh injury concerns.

Mark O'Brien is back in training but the game has come too soon for him.

Fromer Forest men Nathan Tyson and Kieron Freemen are likely to be on the bench.

Striker Ward is going into the game in a rich vain of form with four goals in his last four games.

He scored a superb solo effort at The City Ground last season to level the scores.

Derby's last five:

Wolverhampton Wanderers (a) 1-1

Watford (h) 5-1

Huddersfield Town (a) 0-1

Charlton Athletic (h) 3-2

Burnley (h) 1-2


Forest's last five:

Bolton Wanderers (a) 2-2

Charlton Athletic (h) 2-1

Birmingham City (h) 2-2

Crystal Palace (a) 1-1

Leeds United (a) 1-2

Middlesbrough vs. Derby, Wed 3rd October 2012, 19:45, nPower Championship

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