Derby County boss Gary Rowett is hopeful that the huge East Midlands derby against Nottingham Forest could be just what some of his players need after international heartbreak.

Whilst Irish duo Richard Keogh and Cyrus Christie moved one step closer to Russia 2018, the dream was over for four men in Rowett's squad.

Scottish pair Ikechi Anya and Chris Martin fell at the final hurdle in Slovenia, whilst Tom Lawrence and Joe Ledley lost their all-or-nothing game against Ireland.

Yet, Rowett feels facing their bitter rivals will be good for those players.

“I think it's the perfect game for the player to come back to, they'll be disappointed but at the same time they will realise that we've got a big game and sometimes the best way to get over disappointment is to throw yourself into the next on,” he told the official site.

The manager also said there could be a few digs aimed at the Welsh boys after they lost to the Irish.

“There will be a little bit of friendly banter between the players but ultimately we're a team, we have a good togetherness and we'll all be focused on making sure we perform against Forest.”

The Verdict

The returning players who won't be going to Russia will be gutted, as it would probably be a career highlight and dream for all of them.

However, they're professionals, so will be totally focused on the job in hand and playing Forest could be ideal, as Rowett says.

The atmosphere and occasion will lift any player who may feel down and the added responsibility of performing for the fans can is sure to concentrate the minds of all involved.

What do you think Derby fans? Let us know your thoughts.