Gary Rowett has stated that this weekend’s clash with Nottingham Forest comes at a good time for Derby County, despite his side struggling for form in the Sky Bet Championship.

Speaking to Derby’s official Twitter account (@dcfcofficial) Rowett has insisted this weekend’s contest comes at a good time for both clubs, claiming that the East Midland derby offers his side a chance to kick-start their season.

Discussing Sunday’s clash, Rowett said:

Derby are without a victory in their last six Championship fixtures, with Rowett’s side managing to pick up just four points from a possible 18 available.

That desperate run has dented Derby’s automatic promotion hopes in the Championship, with the Rams slipping to fifth over the course of the last month and nine points adrift of Cardiff City, who occupy the second automatic promotion spot.

Whilst Derby have been on the slide, their mid-table neighbours are picking up some form in the Championship, which has pulled Aitor Karanka’s side clear of the relegation zone.

Forest enter this weekend’s clash in 15^th following a five-match unbeaten run, which has seen Karanka’s side pick up nine points from a possible 15.

The Verdict

Sunday will be a difficult test for both sides, and if Derby can get a good result against Forest, it could help put their promotion push back on track, as Rowett claims.

However, Forest are in great form and will be looking to put another dent in their rivals’ promotion dream.

Form is likely to go out of the window on Sunday and we are in for an entertaining clash.

Derby fans… Let us know your thoughts!