Changes to be made in Derby County predicted XI vs Exeter City

Paul Warne's Derby County are in decent form as of late and find themselves in a very strong position in League One.

The Rams sit in second place, just six points behind leaders Portsmouth and well in contention for automatic promotion.

They make the long away trip to Exeter City today as they look to bounce back from what was a disappointing draw against strugglers Shrewsbury Town at the weekend.

Paul Warne has got a number of injury dilemmas and following on from a poor result could be inclined to change his starting lineup.

Formation - 3-5-2

Goalkeeper: Joe Wildsmith

Joe Wildsmith has regained his place in the starting XI after Paul Warne switched back to him on Saturday following an injury to Josh Vickers. It's a massive chance for Wildsmith to show his quality and full establish himself as the number one choice.

Defender: Eiran Cashin

Cashin missed out on Saturday's game through an injury to his calf, however he is likely to be fit to return this evening and so should be back in the starting XI.

Defender: Curtis Nelson

Curtis Nelson has been able to extend his record of playing in every minute so far this season. He should be back in the starting XI tonight.

Defender: Sonny Bradley

Sonny Bradley has finally been able to gain some regular minutes after a poor start to his Derby career. The defender will be keen on putting in a good performance tonight to show Paul Warne that he should continue to start.

Left wing back: Callum Elder

Callum Elder has had a couple of games on the sidelines as Paul Warne decided to give Louie Sibley the chance to play on the left. However, after a couple of average team performances and a short week, he could make the switch back to Elder tonight.

Right wing back: Joe Ward

Joe Ward has, much like Sonny Bradley, started to finally find his feet in a Derby shirt. The winger has started the past two games and will be hoping to continue his run in the starting lineup.

Centre midfield: Ebou Adams

Adams is a doubt for tonight because of a leg cramp that he sufferred on Saturday. However, Paul Warne has indicated that he is keen on starting the midfielder so he could be back again. After just two weeks at the club, Adams has looked like a steal.

Centre midfield: Max Bird

Max Bird was arguably Derby's best player against Shrewsbury on Saturday, he popped up with a goal and helped to control the midfield. No doubt he will start tonight.

Centre midfield: Conor Hourihane

Conor Hourihane has been excellent in his leadership and mentorship of his teamates. He is a vital part of Paul Warne's plans and will be starting again this evening.

Striker: Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing has been a class act for Derby this season, but was fairly quiet on Saturday. He will be hoping to make more of an impact against James Collins tonight.

Collins' goalscoring form has been excellent this season. He didn't have many chances to score on Saturday however and so will be hungry to add to his impressive tally.