Ebosele could fill in at full-back in clash with leaders
FESTY Ebosele made the headlines in Derby County’s last game, the 1-1 draw away against Millwall, and he features in selection discussions ahead of Sunday’s home fixture against Championship leaders Bournemouth.
The 19-year-old has played at right-back for much of his time with the Rams but manager Wayne Rooney sees the youngster playing higher up the pitch where his pace and power can hurt opponents, as it did Millwall when he scored his first senior goal.
He is raw and is learning the game but he has featured in the last seven matches – four starts and three appearances as a substitute.
He does have more impact higher up the pitch, a position that eases some of his defensive responsibility, but Nathan Byrne’s suspension is likely to see Ebosele fill in at fullback when Bournemouth visit.
Byrne was sent off at Millwall following his second yellow card of the game. It is his second suspension of the season having served a onematch ban for reaching five yellow cards in 11 League games, far too many in such a short space of time and a part of his game he needs to address.
Max Bird and Graeme Shinnie have formed an effective partnership in midfield but, as with most
weeks, the dilemma is who should form the trio behind the striker, and who should lead the attack.
Skipper Tom Lawrence impressed in the 10 role at Millwall and Jason Knight’s energy and purpose caught the eye. Had his finishing or sharpness when opportunities arose been better he could have got himself a goal.
Ravel Morrison has been on international duty with Jamaica and played as a substitute in a World Cup qualifier against the USA in Kingston on Tuesday night. The travelling involved for the midfielder might come into consideration when Rooney names his team. ■■Predicted Derby County XI: Roos; Ebosele, Jagielka, Davies, Buchanan; Bird, Shinnie; Knight, Lawrence, Morrison; Baldock.