Trio left out of squad for south-west

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Three key players will miss Derby County’s three-match tour of Devon.

Rob Hulse, Kris Commons and Dean Leacock are not in the 20-man squad because they are not ready to play matches due to niggling strains.

But midfielder Paul Green is fit enough to travel after his injury scare.

Green limped out of Saturday’s defeat by Chesterfield amid fears he had damaged his right foot, the same one he broke at the back end of last season.

“It was a concern when we saw him hobble off but it is a different injury altogether,” said manager Nigel Clough.

"He jarred his ankle but it has improved a lot.

“We would not take him if we did not think he had a chance of playing this week.”

Derby play Yeovil at Huish Park tonight (7.45pm). Then they face Torquay United at Plainmoor on Thursday and Exeter City at St James’ Park on Saturday. Striker Chris Porter also travels after missing the Chesterfield game due to a knock he picked up in training late last week.

“Chris was left out as a precaution – we will not be taking any chances with any of the players – but if he is OK, he will play against Yeovil tonight,” said Clough.

Leacock felt some discomfort in his groin a few days after playing against Burton Albion and so he sat out the Chesterfield fixture.

The centre-back is easing his way back to full fitness after being out for eight months with a groin and pelvic problem.

“Dean will not travel down south with us. The medical people feel he will be better staying here and doing some leg work and stamina work with a view to playing in one of the friendlies next week,” said Clough.

"It is precautionary with Dean. We are just taking our time with him.

"It is more important he gets fully fit than fit quickly.

"Rob and Kris will also stay here and train.

"We hope to get them on the pitch sometime next week.

"We have games against Matlock, Burton and Alfreton. Those sorts of games will be ideal for them two to come back in.

"The injuries break up the pattern of what we are trying to do but hopefully they are only short-term injuries.

“It is not ideal but as long as they get on the pitch and get some football in the next two and a half weeks then they will be in contention for the opening game against Peterborough.”

Hulse has a groin strain and Commons a tight hamstring.

Steve Davies played against Belper Town last night after an injury scare with his foot last week.

“That is all OK. He had a run-out last night with a view to being involved in Devon later on in the week,” said Clough.

Davies missed the final eight games of last season after suffering a broken metatarsal.

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[vicky-27]

Fingers crossed they will all be fighting fit for the start of the season, or at least Porter to be fit - will dread the thought of Varney starting up front on his own at the Peterborough game.