Burton Albion to make short trip in A38 Derby vs Derby County

Derby County face familiar opponents next up as they play against Burton Albion who will make the trip from just 13 miles down the road.

The Rams go into the game in fourth place and looking good for a promotion charge. Paul Warne's side are just two points off the top two and four points away from league leaders Portsmouth.

Meanwhile, Burton sit in 17th place, five points clear of the relegation zone and at what could be a turning point in their season.

New manager bounce

The Brewers recently sacked manager Dino Maamria after a one and a half year spell as manager.

Maamria left the club battling relegation and so Brewers owner Ben Robinson decided on a new direction.

On Thursday morning, Burton appointed former assistant manager of Barnsley and Swansea City Martin Paterson.

This will be the 36 year-old's first job as a manager and having played for the likes of Blackpool, Burnley, Stoke City and Huddersfield Town, he should have all the experience and knowledge of the EFL that he needs.

The change in manager could provide a challenge for Paul Warne and Derby County as they won't have any indication as to how Patterson's Burton side will line up or perform.

Burton will be hoping for a new manager bounce against their local rivals as they look to avoid making it a third consecutive loss against the Rams.

Putting on the pressure

Meanwhile, for the Rams, they have a chance to move up to second place if other results go their way. Paul Warne will be keen to see his side in the automatic promotion places for the first time this season as it could provide a real boost to his players.

Derby have been in good form lately and have won four out of five league games, they will be looking to add to their good run and put some pressure on the teams around them.

Their opponents' form has fluctuated a little recently as they have two wins from five but have only lost once in those games.

It will be a test for Derby, but ultimatley one that they will be expected to pass with flying colours if they are to challenge for promotion.

Predictions

On paper, the Rams should find Monday to be a comfortable game. They have the second best scoring record in the league and the second best defensive record.

In contrast, the Brewers have struggled in front of goal and have scored the third fewest goals in League One.

With numbers as contrasting as these, it should be easy for the Rams, but with the added pressure and expectation of a local rival coming to Pride Park and the possibility of a new manager bounce, it could prove to be a big challenge for Paul Warne's side.