 Derby go into the game against Newcastle as the only Premier League side without a win, having lost their last five games in all competitions.
As the Rams hope to avoid their fifth straight league defeat, Billy Davies knows that they’ll need to tighten up in defence. But although Dean Leacock is lookig for a return to the starting Xi, Darren Moore (knee) is a doubt.
Craig Fagan starts a four-game ban and Billy Davies may give a debut to striker Kenny Miller, who has been out with a hamstring injury, while Rob Earnshaw is also available and David Jones is hoping for a start. Giles Barnes is still short of match fitness and isn’t likely to be available for a few weeks yet.
Newcastle will be willing Michael Owen to pass a late fitness check after his two recent international games and his likely strike partner is Mark Viduka who’s getting over a sore hamstring. Emre is a doubt after picking up a knock playing for Turkey.
The Newcastle boss has hinted that transfer deadline day signings Habib Beye and Adoulaye Faye could make their debuts for the club, while United are still without long-term absentees Stephen Carr (hamstring), Damien Duff (ankle), Joey Barton (foot), Celestine Babayaro (groin) and Peter Ramage (knee).
| |
Derby |
Draw |
Newcastle |
| League |
34 |
27 |
45 |
| FA Cup |
2 |
4 |
4 |
| League Cup |
0 |
0 |
1 |
| Total |
36 |
31 |
50 |
|
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