Derby County vs Blackburn Rovers preview - Russell blow for Rams

Posted Monday, January 26, 2015 by PA

Johnny Russell will miss out when Derby resume their Championship promotion challenge against Blackburn at the iPro Stadium.

Russell skipped some training sessions last week because of a tight hamstring and the problem forced him off during the FA Cup victory over Chesterfield on Saturday, leaving Rams head coach Steve McClaren with limited options in the wide positions.

With Jordan Ibe recalled from his loan spell by Liverpool, McClaren's only two wingers ahead of Tuesday night are Jamie Ward and Simon Dawkins - and Ward is working his way back to full fitness after almost three months out with thigh problems.

McClaren, who is in the market for another winger, will check on midfielder Craig Bryson after a hip problem meant he was an unused substitute against Chesterfield.

Rovers could be without midfielders Lee Williamson and David Dunn after both came off injured during their cup win over Swansea.

Williamson suffered an eye injury during the first half and Dunn, who came on as his replacement, pulled up with a calf problem after the break.

Top scorer Rudy Gestede, a target for Crystal Palace, could return to the starting line-up along with fellow striker Jordan Rhodes after both started on the bench against the Swans

Loanee Alex Baptiste is available again while Jason Steele is set to reclaim his place in goal after Simon Eastwood got a run-out in the cup.