Waghorn fit and Sibley makes case
STRIKER Martyn Waghorn is fit for Derby County’s Championship clash against Wycombe Wanderers and Krystian Bielik is set to return to the squad.
Waghorn was substituted at halftime in Wednesday night’s 3-0 defeat by Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium after taking a knock to his back.
“Everyone is fit and available for selection, no new injuries from the last game. Waggy took a knock in the back, he has trained and is available,” said Rams interim manager Wayne Rooney.
Bielik has not been involved in the 20-strong squads on duty in the last two games, against Middlesbrough and Bristol City.
“Krystian has trained well, he will be in the squad. Whether or not he starts the game or is on the bench, we will wait and see,” said Rooney.
Jordon Ibe has yet to make an appearance for the first team since joining the Rams as a free agent in September. His only match action has been 45 minutes for the under23s.
The 24-year-old former Liverpool and Bournemouth winger has also been unable to train of late due to illness but he is back training.
“Jordon has trained really well,” said Rooney.
“He had an illness and then an illness again. He has got over that and he has trained fantastic in the last few days.
“He obviously needs to build and work on his fitness. That will take a little bit of time but I am delighted with him being back training with the players.
“From what I have seen, if we can get him fully fit he will be a big plus for us.”
Rooney said last night’s Under-23 game was too soon for Ibe to play but added: “I am sure that (an under-23 game) will be an option in a week or so. We’ll see how he goes and make a decision on whether he is ready to join us.”
Louie Sibley impressed when he came off the bench against Middlesbrough.
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder has not started a game since the 4-0 home defeat by Blackburn Rovers in September. Has he put himself in line to start against Wycombe?
“Of course he has,” said Rooney. “He had a great chance at Middlesbrough, he normally takes those chances. If that goes in, it is a different outcome to the game. He has trained well and he is available.”