Rams loan ace set for Forest return

Derby are hoping loan starlet Nacer Barazite could return from a knee injury in time for Sunday's derby clash with Nottingham Forest.

The Dutch Under-19 international on loan from Arsenal looked set for a lengthy absence when it was thought he had suffered medial knee ligament damage in the the defeat at Blackpool last week. However the 18-year-old was back in full training on Thursday and could be considered for the match at Pride Park.

"Nacer's trained and hopefully he will have no reaction," said manager Paul Jewell.

Centre-back Dean Leacock is also looking to return to training before the weekend, despite suffering a calf injury during the win against Norwich on Tuesday. However it is not known if he will be ready in time to face Forest.

Meanwhile Jewell is aiming to repay the fans for their excellent support in the past year with a win against the Rams big local rivals.

"The supporters have been absolutely brilliant," Jewell told the Evening Telegraph.

"I do not say that flippantly, I do not say that to try to curry favour with them. Their support has been the shining light that has kept me going and it would be lovely if we can get a result for them on Sunday.

"The most important thing is getting three points, you don't get any more points for winning a 'derby' match but supporters do get that extra spring in their step because it means everything to them.

"I am aware of that because I come from Liverpool, I am aware what it means.

"To be honest, I wasn't quite aware of the rivalry between the two clubs before I got here but I've been made to realise quickly that it's just as passionate as the Liverpool-Everton derby or any derby.

"It means everything to the people of Derby and Nottingham to get one over on the old enemy.

"Yes, I am looking forward to it. I'm sure they [Forest] are as well and it'll be a great occasion. Hopefully everyone from Derby will go home happy."