Playing two strikers up front and other things Lampard must do to bring Derby back to winning ways

3 things Lampard must do to make Derby bounce back against Blackburn

Derby County fell to a 1-0 defeat against Rotherham United at the AEESEAL New York Stadium on Saturday in a fiery meeting between the sides.

The Rams’ run of four wins in a row in all competitions was halted by Rotherham as Ryan Manning scored from the spot. However, the hosts should have recorded their third home league win of the season more comfortably.

Tom Lawrence was red carded for a nasty tackle from behind on Richie Towell before Derby manager Frank Lampard was sent to the stands as his 10 men were deservedly beaten on Saturday.

Next up for Derby is a midweek clash against Blackburn Rovers, who were held to a 1-1 draw by Aston Villa. Here are three things Lampard must do to get Derby back on track.

Play two strikers up front

Derby County have perennially lacked a plan B and now wonder why they have found it difficult to pierce the opposition’s defence at times.

Lampard has constantly gone with the 4-3-3 system but in the defeat at Rotherham, he switched to a 4-2-3-1. The system didn’t work and it’s high time Lampard starts using two players up front as the Rams’ main concern has been their lack of goals this season.

The game against Blackburn would be the perfect time to unleash two strikers – Jack Marriott and Martyn Waghorn. The duo could form a potent strike force and they would wreak havoc against Blackburn.

Mason Bennett must start

After an impressive pre-season, Mason Bennett has quickly become an important squad player for Lampard, with the forward dishing out impressive cameos. Bennett has been Lampard’s go-to man in times of difficulty but at Blackburn, the 22-year-old should be handed a start.

Tom Lawrence’s straight red card in the last game means he is set to miss the Blackburn clash. Lampard must start Bennett on the left as the 22-year-old could give the visitors’ backline a tough time with his explosive pace, directness and movement.

Get the first goal as quickly as possible

Blackburn have shown their defensive frailties this season, most notably against Bristol City when they lost the game 4-1. They have been decent going forward but defensively, Tony Mowbray’s side have problems and that is where Lampard should take the utmost advantage.

Read more: 4 goals in 8 games – Derby County’s promotion chances could hinge on their young star’s form this season

It is of paramount importance for Derby County to play direct football and get the first goal as quickly as possible. An early goal at Pride Park would see the home support go into a raucous mood, which would destabilise the opponents and put further pressure on them.