John Brayford Struggling with injury

[-JW-]

So it seems that this year's DCFC 'playing on one leg' player is John Brayford taking over the role from Shaun Barker.

"John's playing on one leg. His thigh is still sore but he is getting through," said Clough.

"It is a concern because we want him fully fit and having three games in seven days doesn't help."

Derby face Brighton & Hove Albion at Pride Park Stadium tomorrow night and return to London on Friday night to take on Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park.

Clough hopes Brayford can battle on but the manager added: "At least having Paul Green fit again gives us an option at right-back."

Green made his first start in seven months at West Ham following a serious knee injury.

Loan signing Tom Naylor has played at right-back in the last two reserve-team games but the 20-year-old defender from Mansfield Town has no experience at Championship level and has been described as "one for the future".

Brayford was ever-present last season and did not miss a minute of action in the Rams' 48 fixtures.

We can all agree that Brayford is the first name on the team sheet when he is fit and I would go as far to say he is in the top 5 english right backs at the moment. Hopefully he can pull through because my heart cant stand watching Jake Buxton or Russell anderson at Right back any more. Paul Green will be wasted if he plays there especially as he is looking to get a new contract.

[David]