The Rams return from the reality of defeat in the FA Cup to being a team in form being unbeaten in 5 league matches. Barnsley also bowed out of the cup race but return to league form far less attractive than their visitors.

Barnsley vs. Derby

Oakwell Stadium

7:45pm – Wednesday February 1st

Derby: 11th – W, W, W, W, D

Barnsley: 15th – L, W, L, L, W

The Teams:

Barnsley:

Former Ram’s player Michael Tonge has joined Barnsley from Stoke on loan along with Norwich midfielder Korey Smith. Both should be included for the clash with Derby even if only as substitutes due to a lack of match fitness.

Jim O'Brien will miss another match through injury while Barnsley Captain Jacob Butterfield has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after knee surgery.

Midfielder Alastair Taylor is also in contention after making his first appearance of the campaign on Saturday during the clubs FA Cup defeat against Millwall.

Derby:

Ryan Noble is likely to start up front for the Rams partnering Callum Ball as Theo Robinson is likely to miss at least one more match.

Nathan Tyson could also be a possible replacement although a lack of match fitness is more likely to see him appear as a substitute again.

New loan signing Tom Carroll is likely to be in the squad after arriving on from Tottenham.

Mile Addison trained with the Rams during the week and may also find his way into the squad after returning from loan at Barnsley.

Daniel J’s Match Preview:

The Rams will be looking to continue their good form which was stopped by the thugs from Stoke in their FA Cup tie.

After the Rams were thumped into submission, they may really enjoy the chance to play football without the fear of someone trying to break their leg every time they touch the ball.

Barnsley’s form has been up and down of late and if the Rams can put early pressure on them they may be able to silence the home faithful.

Nigel’s tactics were called into question by many fans and pundits when he reverted to playing one up front in the cup. Hopefully with Noble being available for this match he will revert to the formation that has paid dividends in recent months.

Other than formation - the other criticism against Clough was the choice of subs used when chasing the match.  It would be good to see the likes of Ben Davies and maybe even Miles Addison injected into the match alongside Tyson if a spark is required rather than a couple of defenders, who when I last read my football strategy guide, is not the recommended solution to scoring required goals.

The FA Cup is gone and its back to the league where the Rams have been in very good form and hopefully come this evening, normal service can be resumed.

I believe the Rams will snatch a goal and keep the sheet clean to steal the points and climb closer still to the top six.

Opponent Watch:

Michael Tonge – If he plays in the match expect him to give a glimpse of why so many Rams fans continually harped on why we should sign the player who has been gathering dust at Stoke for so long.

Daniel J’s Match Prediction:

 Barnsley 0 – 1 Derby

Photo: Action Images

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