Mon Sep 26, 2016 4:52 pm
Russell Back In Contention For Derby’s Trip To Cardiff
26th September 2016
by DCFC Media
Derby County forward Johnny Russell is set to return to the squad for Tuesday’s Sky Bet Championship visit to Cardiff City.
We’ve got scope to freshen it up with the players that we have available and I may well do that."
Nigel Pearson
The Scotland international, 26, has missed Derby’s last four games with a calf injury sustained earlier this month against Newcastle United.
However, after resuming training upon the completion of his rehabilitation work with Derby's medical team, Russell could make his comeback against the Bluebirds.
Prior to his short spell on the sidelines, Russell had started four successive league games for Nigel Pearson’s side from mid-August through to mid-September.
Pearson says, whatever side he names at the Cardiff City Stadium, an improved result is required after Derby fell to a 2-1 home defeat to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday despite taking the lead through Matej Vydra.
“Johnny Russell comes back into contention and we’ll go from there,” Pearson told Rams Player HD.
“We’ve got scope to freshen it up with the players that we have available and I may well do that.
“Whichever team takes to the field; we need an improved outcome. Performances are one thing; we need improved results to steady the nerves somewhat.”
Pearson says on-loan Manchester United striker James Wilson has a chance of returning to the fold against Paul Trollope’s side.
He has missed Derby’s last two matches after picking up a knock against Bristol City just over a week ago.
“James Wilson has trained and we’ll have another look at him to see if he is ready to be part of the squad,” he said.
“If he’s available then great, if not then we’ll move forward without him.”
Jason Shackell (calf), Craig Forsyth (knee) and George Thorne (leg) all remain sidelined.