Nacer Barazite could make his Deby debut against Southampton at Pride Park on Saturday.
Barazite could make Derby debut
Derby manager Paul Jewell could hand a debut to new signing Nacer Barazite when his side take on Southampton at Pride Park on Saturday.
The 18-year-old forward has joined the Rams on loan from Arsenal until 31st December and offers Jewell another option in attack as he seeks a first league win as Derby boss.
Emanuel Villa is also pushing for a striking slot after grabbing a hat-trick in a behind-closed-doors match against Leicester in midweek.
Villa has yet to start a game this season but could well be included against Saints at the expense of Rob Hulse or Nathan Ellington.
Meanwhile, Claude Davis is likely to continue at centre-back following the retirement of defender Alan Stubbs.
Southampton news
Southampton chief Jan Poortvliet is expected to name Jack Cork in his squad for the trip to the Midlands.
The 19-year-old defender was signed on loan from Chelsea on Thursday after centre-back Andrew Davies was sold to Stoke earlier in the week.
Cork is likely to be among the substitutes with Michael Svensson once again partnering Chris Perry at the back.
Midfielder Rudi Skacel, who has yet to figure this season amid rumours he is one of the high earners poised to leave the club, suffered a leg injury playing for the reserves and is sidelined.
Saints could therefore be unchanged from the side narrowly beaten 2-1 by Birmingham last week, with Stern John once again leading the line.
Midfielder Lee Holmes returns to Pride Park having left Derby over the summer.
