Gary Rowett has delivered a bittersweet update on Joe Ledley, confirming that the Derby County midfielder will miss Sunday’s clash with Nottingham Forest, but revealing the extent of his injury is not as bad as first feared.

A calf injury has ruled Ledley out of this weekend’s clash with Forest, with the Derby Telegraph also stating that the midfielder will only face a further month on the sidelines, after initial fears that it could be worse.

Speaking to Derby’s official Twitter account (@dcfcofficial) about the 31-year-old, he said:

The Rams face Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon, with Rowett’s side going in search of their first victory in six.

The run of six Championship fixtures without a victory has dented Derby’s automatic promotion hopes, with the Rams now fifth in the table and nine points adrift of Cardiff City, who occupy the second automatic promotion spot ahead of the run-in.

Added to Ledley’s absence, Derby are also facing up to the possibility of facing Forest without Tom Huddlestone, David Nugent and Cameron Jerome, who are all doubts.

The Verdict

Ledley’s injury is a blow for Derby, but Rowett will be relieved that the midfielder’s calf problem isn’t a season-ending one.

The Welshman has been important for Derby so far this season, and getting him back ahead of the run-in and play-offs will be huge for the Rams.

However, the injuries working against Derby this weekend are a concern.

Derby County fans… Let us know your thoughts!