Derby County were without a number of key players during their defeat to Watford.
The Rams were looking to build on their shock win over Middlesbrough last weekend, but Ebou Adams’ early goal wasn’t enough to secure any points at Vicarage Road.
Derby were without two players for their clash with the Hornets, with both Josh Vickers and Ben Osborn missing out.
The pair had started both of their opening two fixtures in the Championship, but were replaced by Jacob Widell Zetterstrom and Adams.
It was the first start for the goalkeeper, who completed a move from Djurgardens IF to Pride Park last week.
Warne gives Derby County injury update
Paul Warne has now explained why the duo were missing this weekend and has admitted that one could return next time out.
Journalist Dominic Dietrich wrote on X: “In case you missed it, update from Paul Warne on the injury situation with Ben Osborn and Josh Vickers. Osborn – Calf injury, hopes he will return for Bristol City Vickers – Groin injury.”
Will Josh Vickers get back in the team?
Fans will be delighted that Osborn could return next weekend, but Vickers looks likely to be out for a bit longer.
While Warne hasn’t indicated how long he could be sidelined for, WebMD claims that mild or moderate groin strains can take 4-8 weeks to fully heal.
Even if the 28-year-old returns sooner than that, his injury has come at a terrible time for him.
Vickers put on a ‘phenomenal’ performance against Middlesbrough and really had the opportunity to keep his place over Zetterstrom.
However, the Swede has now taken his spot in between the sticks and it seems incredibly unlikely that he will leave that position for the rest of the season – unless he performs poorly.
Vickers’ chance of retaining the number one spot seems to be over and he will be incredibly frustrated, but fans will now be eager to see what his replacement can do for them in the Championship.
The Rams worked very hard over a long period of time to bring Zetterstrom to the club, so there are high hopes for him to do a good job at replacing Joe Wildsmith.
