Derby County boss Frank Lampard has revealed he was pleased that striker Jack Marriott was able to return to the side in the defeat to Brighton Saturday.

The 24-year-old striker had established himself as the Rams number one striker after a good run of form from October onwards.

However, he had missed four games in a row due to a combination of illness and an ankle injury before returning in the FA Cup tie.

Lampard decided to introduce the ex-Peterborough man as a substitute at half-time and whilst he couldn't help the team to a result, the Rams improved significantly as the game went on.

And, the boss told Derbyshire Live that he was glad to see his ten-goal striker back in action: "It was good for Jack to get minutes at the weekend."

That could present the 40-year-old with a selection dilemma ahead of Wednesday's game against Millwall at Pride Park.

Martyn Waghorn has done well in Marriott's absence, so Lampard may be tempted to include both players in from the start in a game Derby will be desperate to win, as it would see them return to the top six.

The Verdict

This is very good news for Derby as Marriott was a really important player for this team before he was forced to miss out.

Obviously, he is a massive goal threat but even away from that he gives the side another option with his pace and movement.

Therefore, Lampard will be glad to have him back and you wouldn't be surprised if he started against the Lions.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.