Derby County look set to welcome Ben Osborn back after the international break with Paul Warne revealing he could have played against Bristol City.
Derby County have made a decent start to life back in the Championship.
Only four games of the campaign have passed, but with two wins and two defeats to their name, there have been positives for the Rams to take and things highlighted that must be worked on over the international break.
The spell without a game also gives the Rams time to work with some of their sidelined players. It will be hoped the group is as strong as possible come the return to action against Cardiff City on September 14th.
One man Derby County seem likely to welcome back is summer signing Ben Osborn. After starting the first two games of the Championship season, the former Nottingham Forest and Sheffield United man has missed the last three outings across all competitions.
However, speaking to Derbyshire Live, manager Paul Warne has revealed he could have been involved in the win over Bristol City at the weekend. The decision was made to avoid any risk and he was left out but should be in line for a return against Cardiff.
Warne also confirmed there are no worries regarding Nathaniel Mendez-Laing, Kenzo Goudmijn and Ryan Nyambe. Corey Blackett-Taylor and Conor Washington were in training ahead of the game too before being omitted.
The fight for a starting spot
Competition for a place in Warne’s starting midfield looks to be really strong this season.
David Ozoh looks to be a real asset for Derby County on loan from Crystal Palace and returning loan favourite Ebou Adams will be backed to make a starting spot his own. Kenzo Goudmijn looks to be the favoured option in a slightly more advanced role.
It means Osborn will be in a real fight to get back into the team once he’s deemed ready. A strong couple of weeks while others are away on international duty could go a long way for the midfielder.
One thing that could help Osborn in his fight is his versatility.
He can play anywhere up the left-hand side, including at left-back. That spot looks to be up for grabs with Callum Elder and Craig Forsyth the current options on the books.
The focus after the break
Derby County have started well and they’ll be pleased to be on home turf again in their first game back.
However, they’ll be determined to get off the mark on the road. Pride Park can be a fortress, but picking up results away from home will be key if they’re to find success in their Championship return.
Both away games have ended in defeat thus far, losing to Blackburn Rovers and Watford. Concerns would have been raised by the penalty shootout loss to Barrow in the Carabao Cup too.
