Deepdale is the venue for Derby County’s trip to take on Preston North End in this weekend’s round of games in the Championship.

The dust of deadline day has barely settled with February ushering in the close of the January transfer window with the focus now squarely back on the football.

New signings could be on display this weekend for clubs up and down the country, but it what matters most is the three points on offer.

Frank Lampard’s men head into their latest second-tier tussle on the back of a win last weekend, just their second in six matches.

Alex Neil's team, meanwhile, have won their last two in a row, and are unbeaten in three looking to extend that run to four games.

A win for the Rams could see them consolidate their place in the top six, but should their hosts come away with the three points; it will see their fears of relegation eased somewhat.

Ahead of the fixture, Sky Sports enlisted the help of former footballer turned pundit David Prutton to look ahead to the clash.

The EFL expert said: “I'm sure I've said this before, but every time I look at the table, I can't quite believe that Preston are in the bottom half.

“There are so many games, such as the last two against QPR and Stoke, where they have looked like a team who should be pushing for the top six.

“Derby will know that this is an incredibly tough challenge, even though they haven't lost to North End in more than ten years. I fancy a draw here, 2-2.”

The verdict

This is set up to be an intriguing clash between both sides.

David Prutton has gone for a two-all draw at Deepdale, and that is a pretty solid bet to make, I feel.

But with Preston struggling but boosting their survival hopes with two successive wins, it could be a tricky time for the Rams tomorrow afternoon.

I do feel Derby will have enough, however, and see off the challenge of the Lilywhites. I am going for a 2-1 win to the visitors.