Derby County have been dealt an injury blow with the news that George Thorne faces up to three weeks out with a calf injury.

The former West Brom man has been very unfortunate with injuries over the years and whilst this is only a minor setback in comparison, it will no doubt frustrate the midfielder.

Thorne lasted 55 minutes in the defeat to Fulham on Saturday which was his first taste of action in almost a month after another injury. Prior to that, the 25-year old had actually had a good run in the team from Christmas time.

Gary Rowett confirmed the news to the club's media at his pre-match press conference for the fixture against QPR tomorrow.

It’s a game the Rams will be desperate to win as they are now seven points behind Cardiff City in second place, meaning automatic promotion is a real long-shot now.

Instead, they may be worried about the play-off chasing pack, with Derby just five points ahead of seventh, with some of the sides below them having a game in hand as well.

The Verdict

From Thorne’s perspective this is another big blow because he will just be desperate to play having missed so much football over the years.

Whilst it also robs Rowett of another midfielder in the coming weeks, it’s an area they are pretty well-stocked in and Throne hasn’t been at his best since returning.

So, it’s up to whoever comes in to take this opportunity and to help Derby get back to winning ways after this alarming blip – starting at Loftus Road tomorrow.

Thoughts, Derby fans? Let us know in the comments below.