How Rams might line up in their game with Germans
DERBY County will face their second pre-season assignment of the summer today when they tackle Hertha Berlin at Pride Park.
Fresh from seeing their team beat Bradford City 2-0 at the weekend, Rams fans are eagerly anticipating their next friendly which kicks off at 4pm.
New signings Conor Hourihane, James Chester and David McGoldrick are all expected to feature after sitting out the clash at Valley Parade.
That was because they had only signed for the club a few days before the game, meaning there was only short preparation time between their arrival and the game itself.
But interim boss Liam Rosenior confirmed after Saturday’s game the trio will be involved against Hertha, which adds more depth and talent to the squad he can choose from.
Fans will be eager to see how they fit into the side.
Whether or not new arrival James Collins will miss out today for the same reason remains to be seen.
That may well be the case but, of course, it is also likely Rosenior will make several changes within the game.
Here is a potential line-up, with Derby expected to play 4-3-3.
JOE WILDSMITH
The summer signing did not have much to do when he made his bow against Bradford at the weekend.
But he showed the hallmarks of a good goalkeeper when he kept his concentration despite being a spectator for large spells of the first half to deny Jamie Walker.
KWAKU ODUROH
The former Manchester City defender, who was elevated to firstteam training under Pep Guardiola, impressed on trial at the weekend.
It would make perfect sense for Derby to have another look at the fullback, who won praise from Liam Rosenior after the game. Looks a very good prospect.
CURTIS DAVIES
The fans’ favourite signed a new one-year contract with the club last week and is expected to be a key figure for the club this season as they seek a return to the Championship. Was player of the season last year and will be integral to any promotion push given his qualities.
JAMES CHESTER
The former Aston Villa defender could still play in the Championship and fans should get a first glimpse of him tomorrow.
CRAIG FORSYTH
The left-back is still in talks with the club over a new contract and he was treated to cries of “sign him up” after scoring at the weekend. Is expected to feature again.
MAX BIRD
The midfielder had a comfortable game at the weekend amid speculation he is wanted by Coventry City this summer. But regardless of that will no doubt be given another runout as the club prepare for the League One opener against Oxford United.
JASON KNIGHT
The midfielder actually played in a more advanced attacking role at the weekend and was part of the front three.
But in light of the fact that David McGoldrick is set to play, he should drop back into midfield.
CONOR HOURIHANE
Undoubtedly the most high-profile addition of all the signings Derby have made so far, following his departure from Aston Villa. Expect him to play as a number eight and he will be tasked with being the creator in the heart of midfield.
NATHANIEL MENDEZ-LAING
Was excellent in the first half against Bradford and proved that he will be a real asset to Derby in the final third.
Knew when to attack the space and played a big role in Tom Barkhuizen’s goal on the stroke of half-time. Will play on the right of the front three.
Conor Hourihane, James Chester and David McGoldrick are all expected to feature
DAVID MCGOLDRICK
The striker is adept at dropping into a playmaker role, but more than capable of leading the line too.
With the need to get minutes under the belt of the new arrivals, should play against Hertha, although Rosenior could name different teams in each half.
TOM BARKHUIZEN
The former Preston attacker was hugely impressive at the weekend and could have scored a hat-trick against Bradford. Scored on the stroke of half-time and looked a real threat.
Expect him to play on the lefthand side of the front three.