Burton Albion FC vs Derby County - Burton waiting on John Mousinho ahead of Derby game

Posted Thursday, August 25, 2016 by PA

Burton captain John Mousinho faces a race against time to be fit for the visit of local rivals Derby.

Mousinho missed the EFL Cup defeat to Liverpool in midweek with a tight hamstring and the quick turnaround for Friday night's clash means he may remain absent, although a late decision will be made on his fitness.

Jackson Irvine was withdrawn at half-time against the Reds but it was merely a precautionary measure and the midfielder is expected to be fit.

Recent signing John Brayford, cup tied on Tuesday night, is available to make his debut while fellow defender Tom Flanagan could return from a thigh injury but midfielder Calum Butcher left the club to join Millwall on Thursday.

Bradley Johnson is a new injury concern for the Rams, who were taken to extra-time and penalties by Carlisle in the EFL Cup.

Johnson turned an ankle against the League Two side and was unable to take part in the marathon shoot-out, which Derby eventually won 14-13.

Following those midweek exertions, Rams boss Nigel Pearson will make changes and the likes of Cyrus Christie, Jason Shackell, Craig Bryson, Will Hughes, Johnny Russell, Tom Ince and Chris Martin are all expected to be recalled.

Jeff Hendrick will miss a fourth successive match with the hamstring injury he sustained at Barnsley almost two weeks ago but it is hoped the midfielder will be fit again following the forthcoming international break.