Derby County welcomes Lincoln City to Pride Park in an important League One clash on Thursday, with Derby aiming to narrow the gap to the automatic promotion spots.
However, Lincoln City seeks to reduce the point difference with their sixth-placed opponents to just two points.
Match Preview
Under Paul Warne’s management, Derby County has been on a positive trajectory, showcasing an unbeaten run of six games in League One, scoring 16 goals during this period.
Although they faced disappointment in the FA Cup against Crewe Alexandra, their focus remains on the league campaign.
Despite conceding late goals in two recent matches, Derby has maintained an eight-game unbeaten streak at Pride Park in the league, showing resilience after initial setbacks against Wigan Athletic and Oxford United.
Meanwhile, Lincoln City, under Michael Skubala, has also displayed steady progress, staying in contention for the playoffs.
The team has accrued nine points from their last five games, with three clean sheets in that duration.
Lincoln has shown promise on the road, securing seven points from their recent three away fixtures against Leyton Orient, Cambridge United, and Wigan Athletic.
Team News
For Derby, Warne may consider changes in the lineup, potentially reintroducing Tyrese Fornah for Louie Sibley, while Tom Barkhuizen, who scored against Wycombe, might earn a starting spot. Conor Washington’s fitness will determine his involvement.
Lincoln City might see Alistair Smith in the starting lineup, replacing Dylan Duffy, and Jack Vale might feature upfront, seeking his first League One goal this season.
Predicted Lineups
Derby County: (4-1-4-1)
Wildsmith;
Ward, Nelson, Cashin, Forsyth;
Hourihane;
Barkhuizen, Bird, Fornah, Mendez-Laing;
Collins
Lincoln City: (3-4-3)
Jensen;
O’Connor, Jackson, Eyoma;
Sorensen, Hamilton, Bishop, Burroughs;
Mandroiu, Vale, Smith
Prediction: Derby County 2-1 Lincoln City
With both teams showcasing solid unbeaten streaks, this promises to be a competitive encounter. While Lincoln may pose a challenge, Derby’s confidence and recent form might see them secure a narrow victory, likely finishing 2-1 in their favor.