How do Rams cope without Agyemang and Brereton Diaz?
Derby County fan writer Amelia Warren assesses how the Rams might deal with the absence of Patrick Agyemang and Ben Brereton Diaz against Southampton.
[BBC] [Getty Images] A huge game in the race for the play-offs takes place on Saturday afternoon, when Derby travel to the league's in-form side, Southampton. Unfortunately for Derby, they will face arguably their toughest test between now and the end of the season without key players Patrick Agyemang, and Ben Brereton Diaz. Agyemang left the field on a stretcher in the first half of Monday's win against Stoke after suffering an Achilles injury, which also means he will no longer be available to compete in this summer's World Cup for the USA.
It is devastating news for a player who has been so influential for Derby throughout this campaign. Brereton Diaz will also be unavailable due to Southampton being his parent club. Two huge blows for Derby, which will no doubt have an effect on their attacking cutting edge.
In Agyemang, the Rams are going to miss having a player who is a focal point, and has the ability to make clever runs in behind. Something which you believe Derby would have looked to use to exploit the Saints' high defensive line. With Brereton Diaz's absence, Derby will lose someone who possesses a lot of energy, and has an incredible work rate, pressing continuously throughout the 90 minutes.
In terms of replacements, Carlton Morris will provide that physicality and presence up front that the Rams will miss in Agyemang. The experienced head of Morris will also be a key asset to Derby on Saturday, particularly in periods where they may need to slow the game down and relieve pressure. Derby's number nine got back on the scoresheet on Monday, netting for the first time since returning from injury.