Derby goalkeeper Frank Fielding could make his return from a groin injury this week, while striker Jamie Ward is expected to make a return to training.

Fielding has missed the last seven matches since suffering the injury in the league draw at Middlesbrough at the start of October.

He could feature in the Rams' Under-21 fixture against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

"If Frank comes through training okay then he will start that game," said manager Nigel Clough, who also hopes Ward will resume training this week.

Ward has been out since suffering a hamstring injury in the Championship victory over Forest at the City Ground on September 30.

Clough added: "We are looking for Jamie to train maybe the middle of this week, with a view to playing in the Under-21 game against Barnsley next Monday."