keith margam
Vital Football Legend
Derby County v Swansea City Wed 16 Dec 17:30 (live on Sky Sports).
Thankfully, for the players sake at least, we are coming to the end of the congested fixture schedule on Sat Jan 2. Then there is a welcome two week break from league action with only an FA Cup tie at Stevenage to play on Sat 9 Jan.
First though we have five important matches and next up are Derby, who have been struggling this season.
After the euphoria of beating our local rivals so well on their own patch, confidence will be high as we travel to face a side who are showing signs of rejuvenation under the charge of Wayne Rooney.
The former Manchester United forward took over as joint-caretaker manager, with Liam Rosenior, Shay Given and Justin Walker, following Philip Cocu's sacking on 14 Nov. They are waiting on a proposed take over from an Abu Dhabi Sheikh to be ratified before selecting a new manager.
Derby are unbeaten in the last five games of the seven he’s been in charge, so they will be no pushovers. Here’s Rooney’s comments after their latest game, a 0-0 home draw against Stoke on Saturday: "We created some good chances. I thought we played some really good football, especially first half when I thought we dominated. It was one of those games where you know if we didn't get a goal in that period, Stoke would have a few moments. But really I don't think they troubled us at all, so I'm pleased with the clean sheet again”.
Thankfully, for the players sake at least, we are coming to the end of the congested fixture schedule on Sat Jan 2. Then there is a welcome two week break from league action with only an FA Cup tie at Stevenage to play on Sat 9 Jan.
First though we have five important matches and next up are Derby, who have been struggling this season.
After the euphoria of beating our local rivals so well on their own patch, confidence will be high as we travel to face a side who are showing signs of rejuvenation under the charge of Wayne Rooney.
The former Manchester United forward took over as joint-caretaker manager, with Liam Rosenior, Shay Given and Justin Walker, following Philip Cocu's sacking on 14 Nov. They are waiting on a proposed take over from an Abu Dhabi Sheikh to be ratified before selecting a new manager.
Derby are unbeaten in the last five games of the seven he’s been in charge, so they will be no pushovers. Here’s Rooney’s comments after their latest game, a 0-0 home draw against Stoke on Saturday: "We created some good chances. I thought we played some really good football, especially first half when I thought we dominated. It was one of those games where you know if we didn't get a goal in that period, Stoke would have a few moments. But really I don't think they troubled us at all, so I'm pleased with the clean sheet again”.