Derby County vs Leeds United preview - Bryson doubt for Rams

Posted Monday, December 29, 2014 by PA

Derby will check on Craig Bryson ahead of the home game against Leeds.

Bryson was ruled out of the 4-0 win at Birmingham on Boxing Day due to a calf injury, with Will Hughes stepping into the midfield.

But Jeff Hendrick, Cyrus Christie and Johnny Russell all shook off knocks to play in the emphatic victory at St Andrew's and came through unscathed.

Boss Steve McClaren can also welcome back Jake Buxton after a two-match ban but fellow defender Zak Whitbread (back) and forward Jamie Ward (thigh) are set to miss out again.

Leeds midfielder Adryan is expected to return to the starting line-up after being rested on Boxing Day.

The Brazilian playmaker made way for Michael Tonge in the home defeat to Wigan, but head coach Neil Redfearn is likely to make one or two changes as his side chase a first league win in five matches.

Defender Giuseppe Bellusci returned in place of Jason Pearce against Wigan and Redfearn must decide whether to retain the Italian at the heart of defence.

Midfielder Rudy Austin and strikers Souleymane Doukara and Steve Morison are also pushing for recalls, while Redfearn has no major new injury or suspension concerns.