Derby County return to action after the season’s second international break, travelling to London to face Millwall.
The Rams have had a good start to their championship campaign, winning four of their first nine games.
Paul Warne will be hoping to add to his win total before the season’s next break next month.
That will require gaining up points away from home, which Derby has struggled to achieve in the second division.
While the match calendar has included difficult tests on the road against Sheffield United and Sunderland, a trip to The Den presents an opportunity to open their account while away.
Derby County injury latest ahead of Millwall
As the international break approached, the Derby management began to see an increase in injury difficulties, necessitating some changes to keep the club competitive.
Warne could have up to six stars available when his side travels to Millwall, although some load management may be required.
Speaking to RamsTV prior of the game, he said: “Callum [Elder] started training on Tuesday, so he needs some minutes, and Ozzy [Ben Osborn] practiced for a couple of days this week.
“With David [Ozoh], we were hopeful he would be available for this weekend – we’re not sure he will be but he’s really close.”
Meanwhile, Liam Thompson, Tom Barkhuizen, and the returning Jake Rooney have begun to play for the under-21s, who faced Aldershot Town in the National League Cup earlier this week.
“Tommo [Thompson] and Tom [Barkhuizen] played 45 minutes, Jake [Rooney] played more but he still has a little way to go.”
It raises questions about the fitness of Sonny Bradley and Tawanda Chirewa, who also missed the previous match against QPR.
However, Derby could see their team return to full strength for a critical run of games ahead.
It is unclear whether any of them will be risked for the journey to Millwall.
Derby County fixture run before the November international break
Derby have several big games before the next break in the calendar, which will be critical in preparing them for success.
With only two home games and four away games in their next six, collecting up points on the road is critical.
Ozoh will be a great help to those chances, with the Crystal Palace loanee’s strength and physicality suited to those tricky road games.
Elder and Osborn’s skill will help, while Barkhuizen, Thompson, and Rooney’s willingness to work just adds to Warne’s choices.
