Recap
Derby is enduring a difficult period, sitting in the penultimate position in the standings and having failed to win any of their last six league matches. Their situation is further complicated by a significant injury crisis, with head coach Eustace unable to call upon nine players for this fixture РLangas (10/0), Taylor (8/0), first goalkeeper Zetterstr̦m (7/0), Johnston (5/0), Cashin (2/0), Forsyth (2/0), Agyemang, Clarke and Murkin.
Stoke had enjoyed an impressive run of five consecutive victories and one draw before suffering a painful 2-3 home defeat against Middlesbrough. The decisive goal arrived in the closing moments, making the loss particularly frustrating after such a strong sequence of performances.
Despite that setback, Stoke have an excellent opportunity to respond immediately against an opponent in poor form and dealing with substantial personnel problems.