Burton vs Cambridge preview - Brewers see light at end of tunnel

Burton's injury problems are beginning to ease ahead of the visit of Cambridge.

Against Cheltenham last Saturday, Albion boss Gary Rowett took a gamble in starting Lucas Akins, who had not trained all week because of a foot injury. He was rewarded as the big winger helped the Brewers return to winning ways and Rowett hopes the summer signing has suffered no ill effects.

Stuart Beavon (groin) and Alex MacDonald also returned in the 1-0 victory against the Robins, while midfielder Lee Bell has been on the bench recently after his knee problem.

Rowett has the likes of George Taft, Dominic Knowles, Matty Palmer, Marcus Harness and Jacob Blyth available should he need to make any changes on Friday night.

Cambridge boss Richard Money has a host of absentees to contend with ahead of the trip to the Pirelli Stadium.

Derby loanee Tom Naylor will serve the second game of a three-match ban following a straight red card on his debut as the U's look to end a run of three straight league defeats.

Issa Diallo is a doubt after coming off with an ankle problem during last Saturday's 1-0 defeat at Wycombe while Ryan Donaldson's troublesome hamstring could affect his chances of an appearance.

Tom Champion (broken cheekbone), Liam Hughes (broken wrist), Luke Chadwick (hamstring) and Ian Miller (Achilles) all remain sidelined.