Derby County have managed to do what they seem to do every year, throw away a great position in the league and end up on the fringe of the play-off race.

They've dropped out of the top six recently and suffered a string of damaging defeats, including one in the East Midland derby. They're still level on points with sixth placed Bristol City, but have played a game more.

 

They did manage a win this week against Wigan, but it was a laboured and torturous victory that did little for fan nerves, nor to alleviate fears they are slipping away from the top six.

Manager Frank Lampard has revealed to the Derby Telegraph that on loan Chelsea attacker Mason Mount is going to miss the next two matches with injury and is unlikely to return before the international break.

The Rams face Sheffield Wednesday and Stoke in a pair of must-win matches, but will have to do so without the exciting youngster.

Is it enough to fully derail their promotion aspirations?

Our Football League experts discuss...

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Jay Taylor

“I think they have been doing just fine derailing it without him.

“One player does not make a team, and their form has been weak in recent weeks.

“Despite the win over Wigan, I still have my concerns with their promotion credentials.

“Mount being out for two more games is not going to make a difference if the rest of the team is unable to perform.”

 

George Harbey

"It could be detrimental for the Rams.

"It is shaping up to a very important few weeks for the club, as with a couple of poor results, they could slip well away from the top six.

"Mount is an integral player for Derby and he needs to be fit from a Rams perspective."

 

Louie Chandler

"I think it could.

"Derby's hopes were always pretty slim ones but they have missed Mount badly in recent weeks.

"Not having him for the next two matches at least will probably be enough to end all hope."