Warne to rotate squad in Derby County vs Bradford City predicted XI

Derby County's next game comes against Bradford City in the EFL Trophy third round at Pride Park this evening.

The Rams face the League Two outfit off the back of a 3-1 league win at Fleetwood over the weekend.

Paul Warne's side have won four of their past five games and have been on a good run of form since November. He will be hoping that they can keep the momentum going with a win against Bradford tonight.

The EFL Trophy provides Warne with the chance to rotate his squad slightly and give more players some crucial game time.

Here is the predicted XI for the Rams' clash this evening.

Formation - 3-4-3

Goalkeeper: Josh Vickers

Josh Vickers made his first league start since joining Derby in the summer on Saturday and managed to help the Rams to a 3-1 win.

He'll still be behind Joe Wildsmith in the side but should get another chance in the EFL Trophy tonight to showcase his ability.

Defender: Curtis Nelson

Curtis Nelson should expect to continue his long run in the starting XI as he has developed a very strong relationship with centre back partner Eiran Cashin.

Defender: Sonny Bradley

Sonny Bradley has been getting more game time recently and he's slowly shaking off his slow start in a Derby shirt. Bradley could be a key player going forward as the Rams will need squad depth later on in the season.

Defender: Eiran Cashin

Eiran Cashin recently signed a clause in his contract that will keep him at Pride Park for at least the rest of the season.

A big relief for Paul Warne who will be needing the star centre back as the Rams aim to keep their winning momentum going.

Left wing back: Callum Elder

Callum Elder is getting closer and closer to taking over the starting role from Craig Forsyth as he has been looking more comfortable in black and white.

The Australian could have a big chance to show Paul Warne why he should start more often tonight.

Right wing back: Joe Ward

Joe Ward needs to step up if he is to regain a regular starting spot over the likes of Kane Wilson. The EFL Trophy clash against Bradford should give Ward the chance to show a better performance to Paul Warne.

Centre midfield: Tyrese Fornah

Tyrese Fornah is another Ram who could do with showcasing his value to start on a more regular basis. The midfielder has been inconsistent as of late and will be keen to earn himself a starting XI place.

Centre midfield: Max Bird

Max Bird is subject to a lot of speculation over a possible departure during the January transfer window. Paul Warne will be keen to give him as much game time as possible to try and convince his star midfielder to sign a new contract and remain at Pride Park.

Left wing: Tom Barkhuizen

Tom Barkhuizen has been playing well recently. He scored Derby's third goal against Fleetwood at the weekend and should have the chance to show what he can do in front of goal again tonight.

Right wing: Louie Sibley

Louie Sibley has still struggled to find his way consistently into the starting XI. Paul Warne has been playing him all over the pitch, including on the wing.

Tonight could be a chance for the midfielder to get some more game time which will be great to keep him match sharp.

Striker: James Collins

James Collins is playing his best football in a Derby shirt so far. He is in fine scoring form with three goals in his last two games. On 16 goals in all competitions, Collins will be looking to add to his tally tonight.