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G.M's Match Preview: Rams Must Win Battle Before Playing Football
Saturday, 19th Dec 2015 07:03 by George Martin

After a comfortable and convincing 4-0 win against Bristol City - Derby travel to face an in form Ipswich side in what is bound to be another test of the teams resolve.

The team selection and formation will be interesting. Clement could opt for the 4-2-3-1 formation as used against Bristol or could revert back to the 4-3-2-1. Derby seemed to just wear Bristol down and Ince was more involved in a central position however there were signs of this against Brighton when he played out wide.

The 4-2-3-1 selection does give licence for Ince to pop up in different positions and attack threateningly through the middle, but Derby could be slightly exposed through the middle, however, Thorne and Johnson have the stature and ability to cope.

The opposition has to be taken into consideration so fans will have to wait and see what Clement decides.

Selection wise, Grant is likely to keep his position in goal unless Carson is fully fit, Thorne should come in for Hendrick and it is anyone's guess if Bent or Martin will start. Again, this depends on the formation.

For Ipswich, Bru, Fraser and Berra should be available for selection after recent injuries and Varney will also be looking to get involved after an Achilles injury.

Defensively Ipswich do seem concede the odd goal but in Sears, Murphy and Pitman they have the attacking prowess to trouble any defence in the division.

Ipswich have only lost one of their last nine games, but have only won one of their last eight at Portman Road, having drawn five and lost two.

Interestingly, those two defeats have when they have played, Hull and Boro, two teams vying for automatic promotion. That possibly suggests they struggle slightly when there is a step up in class and ability from their opposition.

Prediction:

This will be a tough encounter against an in form Ipswich side. Derby will be confident from the 4-0 thumping of Bristol City in midweek but Mick McCarthy teams always seem well organised, motivated and have a desire to win.

The football will not be pretty and Derby will need to win the battle first and then play football second.

If Derby can take the lead, then they can go on and win the game. However, I am going to play safe on this occasion and go for a 1-1 draw and Johnson to score. Who else!

Thank you for reading and Merry Christmas to all RamZone readers. Enjoy the game!


Last Time They Met:

Ipswich 0 v 1 Derby

Portman Road - 10th January 2015


Classic Clash Video:

Ipswich 2 v 6 Derby

Portman Road - 24th April 1976


Gaffer / Player Pre Match Interviews:

Paul Clement on the trip to Portman Road.

Lee Grant talks Ipswich while wearing a shockingly festive jumper.


COYR!!



Photo: Action Images



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