Speaking to the Derby Telegraph, Gary Rowett has indicated that George Thorne could be set for his first start of the Sky Bet Championship campaign following this week’s international break, with Derby County facing an intense schedule.

Thorne’s opportunities have been limited in the Championship so far this season, with the midfielder completing a long recovery following a broken leg suffered in May 2016, with Rowett handing the 24-year-old just one start.

That appearance came in the Carabao Cup, with Thorne’s only other contribution this season coming from the bench in the Championship, where he has made four appearances.

However, with the Rams facing five fixtures in just 15 days when they return following the international break, Rowett has confirmed that Thorne will be in contention for his first league start of the season, he said: “With so many games coming up in a short period of time I think there is a good chance we might see George start.

"It is hard to get match fit if you are not playing matches, and we have tried to help that with the training load.

"I don't think you are going to see George's true value until he steps onto the pitch from the start, and at some point we are going to have to give him that opportunity."

The Rams face a testing trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham on Saturday, with Rowett’s side heading to London on the back of and exceptional run of form, which has seen them catapult into play-off contention.

Derby have suffered just one defeat in their last eight Championship fixtures, which came in their most recent outing – a 4-2 defeat to Reading at the Pride Park Stadium.

The Verdict  

Whilst Rowett has held Thorne back so far this season, it is not really a surprise to hear he is in contention for his first start in the Championship, with Derby facing a gruelling schedule.

Squad rotation will be key to Derby maintaining an excellent run of form, and pressure will be on Thorne to make an impression when Rowett gives him an opportunity in the Championship.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!