Derby County vs Southport FC preview - McClaren to utilise Rams squad

Posted Friday, January 02, 2015 by PA

Derby head coach Steve McClaren could use the FA Cup visit of non-league Southport as an opportunity to utilise his squad.

After a hectic Christmas schedule, McClaren may hand some of his star performers a rest and give some of his fringe players a run out.

As with Capital One Cup ties this season, Kelle Roos could replace Lee Grant in goal, while the likes of Ivan Calero, Lee Naylor and Kwame Thomas may come into the reckoning. The third round tie could also present another chance for Paul Coutts, who has recently returned from a long injury lay-off, to get some more minutes under his belt as he rebuilds his match sharpness.

Top scorer Chris Martin is likely to be rested while McClaren will check on Jamie Ward, who has been struggling with a thigh injury recently.

Southport are again set to be without Micah Evans and Joe Connor.

Both players are struggling to recover from hamstring strains and still receiving treatment ahead of the iPro Stadium clash.

Luke Foster has been managing a back problem but came through the busy Christmas period unscathed.

Defender Clayton McDonald was released after missing last Sunday's Vanarama Conference victory at Kidderminster, having made 13 appearances for the club on non-contract terms.