Derby v Newcastle preview

Davies' men out to halt poor start to the season

By James Dall   Last updated: 17th September 2007

Celtic Kenny Miller

Miller: Derby debut

FACT BOX

Prediction:
Derby 1 Newcastle 3

One to watch: Michael Owen

Sky Bet odds: Derby 7/2, Draw 12/5, Newcastle 4/5

Click here for full odds

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Derby County will be praying that they can stop the rot as they head into a tough test against a rejuvenated Newcastle United side.

It has been a torrid start to the season for Billy Davies' men, but Monday night's clash at Pride Park provides them with the opportunity to avoid a fifth successive Premier League defeat.

The Rams' defence has been frail and often exposed, and following the 6-0 drubbing against Liverpool their main concern early on will be to keep it tight at the back.

In defence the experienced Darren Moore (knee) is a doubt, but 23-year-old Dean Leacock is pushing for a place after returning from injury.

Miller debut

Promising midfielder Giles Barnes is back in full training, but is still a couple of weeks away from making his return to the first-team.

Craig Fagan is absent as he begins his four-game ban, so Derby's £3million striker Kenny Miller is in line to make his debut after recovering from a hamstring injury.

The Scotsman is likely to be partnered with front-man Robert Earnshaw, as Derby look to find the balance between pushing for goals and protecting their backline.

In-form Owen

Sam Allardyce has led The Magpies to their best start in six seasons, and victory tonight would be their first set of back-to-back victories in 23 league matches.

United are still without long-term absentees Stephen Carr (hamstring), Damien Duff (ankle), Joey Barton (foot), Celestine Babayaro (groin) and Peter Ramage (knee).

Emre is a doubt after picking up a knock playing for Turkey, while Jose Enrique and Mark Viduka face late fitness tests on their respective hamstring injuries

The Newcastle boss has hinted that transfer deadline day signings Habib Beye and Adoulaye Faye could make their debuts for the club, while the in-form Michael Owen should lead the line.