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(Image) This Is How Derby County Could Lineup For The Season Opener Against Sunderland

Derby County

Predicted Derby County Lineup To Take On Sunderland In Season Opener

Derby County didn’t finish their pre-season schedule in quite the manner they would have wanted to but they remain one of the favourites for promotion and given the state of play on Wearside right now, I cannot believe that they are outsiders to win this game.

Rowett’s appointment has lifted the club and a strong start here on the opening day should set the tone for the long season that lies ahead.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Manager: Gary Rowett

GK – Scott Carson

The ex-England ‘keeper has tons of experience and will enjoy another season as no.1.

RB – Andre Wisdom

Cyrus Christie’s replacement will want to start off with a bang and probably won’t have too much to worry about at the Stadium of Light.

Andre Wisdom

CB – Curtis Davies

One of two recruits from Hull in pre-season, Davies retains top level ability and will prove to be an astute acquisition.

CB – Alex Pearce

Had a better season last year than some have given him credit for and can carry on here from where he left off last term.

LB – Marcus Olsson

Another season as first choice left-back beckons and I think Rowett will want more from him going forward. A few assists from left-back would not go amiss if the club are to take the leap into the top two of this division.

CM – Tom Huddlestone

The former Hull City man has returned and comes back as a more experienced and rounded player. Still capable of playing the Premier League, Huddlestone could make Derby tick and if he stays fit, he could be crucial this season.

Tom Huddlestone

CM – Bradley Johnson

The midfielder has plenty of experience now and should quietly go about his job in this division. He remains capable of helping his side gain promotion.

RW – Nick Blackman

A little like Anya on the other side, Blackman probably isn’t thought of by Rowett as the long term answer in this position but is a decent stop gap after the loss of Tom Ince.

CAM – Matej Vydra

He might be given the chance to perform in his preferred position down the middle, supporting the front man.

Derby County
Matej Vydra (right)

LW – Ikcehi Anya

The former Watford man may be entrusted to play on the opening day, with Johnny Russell also fighting for this position.

ST – Chris Martin

Back at the club now and ready to show his worth, the striker may not be prolific but is a good no.9 and can bring Derby’s other attackers into play.