Preview:Derby County vs. Sheffield Wednesday

Derby County have the chance to end a rare disappointing run of results when they play host to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday afternoon.

Steve McClaren's side have been one of the most entertaining in the Championship this season, but they prepare for their latest challenge without a win in the last three games.

Draws with Bournemouth and Rotherham United came either side of a 2-1 loss to Reading in the FA Cup fifth round, although the defeat in that competition allows the Rams to focus on securing promotion back to the Premier League.

Current form suggests that the race for automatic promotion could go down to the final days of the campaign, with Derby currently sitting third, one point behind leaders Middlesbrough.

With just eight points currently separating the top eight teams, McClaren will be fully aware that his side can not wait much longer for a return to their best form.

Despite being held to a 3-3 draw by Rotherham United in midweek, the good news was that loan signings Darren Bent and Tom Ince continued to shine with three goals between them in a dramatic game.

Wednesday's form has been even more frustrating, and Stuart Gray must find a way to boost morale in the squad following six matches without a win in the Championship.

The poor run has dealt a big blow to Wednesday's playoff hopes, with Gray's side currently trailing sixth-placed Norwich City by 13 points with 15 league games remaining.

Changes are likely for Wednesday, and both Sam Hutchinson and Adthe Nuhiu are expected to be given starting roles as the Owls look to hold on to a place in the top half of the table.

Derby striker Chris Martin is still out with injury, which means that Bent is set to lead the line once again.

Derby:

Form in Championship: LWWWDD Form in all competitions: WWWDLD

Possible starting lineup: Grant; Christie, Keogh, Buxton, Forsyth; Mascarell, Hendrick, Hughes; Ward, Ince, Bent

Sheffield Wednesday:

Recent form: LDLDLD

Possible starting lineup: Westwood, Hutchinson, Palmer, Lees, Helan, Zayate, Maghoma, Lee, Bus, McGugan, Nuhiu

Sports Mole says: 2-0