The Rams won on Welsh soil last time, but can they repeat the feat? Much will depend on who scores first, as Derby haven’t won yet after falling behind.
Vital Quotes:
Derby boss Phil Brown said: ‘Some 80% of the games in the Championship are won by the team that scores the first goal, so if you can get in front you can see how important that is.’
Also taking ahead of the match to the official website, Tommy Smith added: ‘They’re obviously a good side. We played them early on in the season when they were struggling and found it a bit easy but they are going to be a different prospect.
‘It’s always hostile and a tough place to play especially so on the back of their good win at Leeds. It is going to be tough but we are four unbeaten, we’ve got a bit of confidence now so we will be confident going into the game.’
Cardiff Team News:
Michael Rickets (on loan from Leeds) is expected to return to the frontline.
Skipper Darren Purse may also return, with midfielder Willie Boland and central defender Neil Cox warming the subs’ bench.
Player to watch: Cameron Jerome
Highly-rated Cardiff striker Cameron Jerome knows where the back of the net is, as does attacking midfielder Jason Koumas (on loan from WBA)- who can shoot from long-range.
Derby Team News:
Stern John and Johnnie Jackson have returned to their respective clubs early, after their loan deals were cut short, so are unavailable.
Midfielder Paul Boertien is still not fit enough to return.
Player to watch: Lewin Nyatanga
The Wales Under 21 international has impressed Derby boss Phil Brown who told the official website: ‘Lewin is learning every game. He had only one or two little hair-raising moments against Preston but he will learn from them.
‘He wants to spend time on the training ground and wants to spend time in front of the videos learning from his mistakes.
‘There were one or two (against Preston) but it is a long learning curve and he is well and truly on the way to being a good professional footballer.’
Match Facts & Stats
Last six meetings:
Cardiff City 0-2 Derby County 18-09-2004
Cardiff City 4-1 Derby County 25-08-2003
Cardiff City 0-2 Derby County 28-09-1985
Cardiff City 1-0 Derby County 23-04-1984
Cardiff City 1-0 Derby County 04-12-1981
Cardiff City 0-0 Derby County 02-05-1981
Next Fixtures:
Luton (h) 26th Dec