How Derby County could line up against Aston Villa

Derby County will be looking to secure a return to the Premier League for the first time since 2008 when they face Aston Villa in the Championship playoff final on Monday afternoon.

The Rams finished sixth at the end of the regular season to secure a spot in the playoffs.

Leeds United were the favourites to advance from their two-legged affair but a spectacular 4-2 win in the second leg at Elland Road saw Frank Lampard's side book their spot in the final.

Despite Derby's quality, Villa are the favourites heading into Monday's final, which perhaps takes some of the pressure off the Rams heading into the richest game in football.

Here, Sports Mole looks at how Lampard's team could line up in the English capital.

Out: Scott Malone (suspension), Craig Bryson (ankle), David Nugent (knee) Doubtful: Martyn Waghorn (Achilles)

Scott Malone was sent off against Leeds last time out and will therefore be unavailable, which will open the door for 38-year-old Ashley Cole to start in what could be his final match in professional football.

Jack Marriott came off the bench to net twice at Elland Road and should earn a starting role as the main forward, particularly with Martyn Waghorn a doubt as the attacker continues to battle an Achilles problem.

Duane Holmes is struggling with a slight issue but should be fit to start although Craig Bryson and David Nugent are confirmed absentees for Lampard's side.

Harry Wilson, Tom Lawrence and Mason Mount are certain to start in the attacking positions, while there will not be any surprises elsewhere with Richard Keogh and Fikayo Tomori featuring in central defence.

Bradley Johnson has been absolutely vital for the Rams in recent months and the 32-year-old will be tasked with providing support to his back four.

> Click here to see how Villa could line up for this fixture