Derby boss Rowett still facing injury crisis ahead of Cardiff clash

Gary Rowett’s injury crisis shows no sign of easing as Derby prepare to play host to Championship promotion hopefuls Cardiff.

Rowett reported only 10 fit players for Friday’s pre-match training session with top scorer Matej Vydra still a major doubt with a groin injury.

Joe Ledley, George Thorne (both calf), Sam Winnall (knee) and Tom Huddlestone (suspended) are three of many Rams players to miss out, while others including Richard Keogh and Tom Lawrence are carrying knocks.

There is one piece of good news for Rowett with defender Chris Baird available to return after his three-match ban.

Cardiff boss Neil Warnock has insisted he will not risk any of his returning stars before the international break.

Aron Gunnarsson is close to a return from an ankle injury while Joe Ralls is still making progress after a knee injury suffered in training.

Warnock could be tempted to name an unchanged side after his side boosted their promotion hopes with a midweek win at Brentford.

It would mean Callum Paterson retaining his place in midfield and Gary Madine once again starting on the bench.