New signing to start in Derby County predicted XI vs Reading

Derby County make the trip the Reading this evening as they have a chance to go to the top of the League One table.

The Rams would overtake current league leaders Portsmouth on goal difference if they were to walk away with three points against a struggling Reading side.

The Royals sit in 21st place, four points away from safety and will be desperate for a win to help with their survival effort.

Here is the Derby County predicted XI for tonight's match:

Formation - 4-5-1

Goalkeeper: Josh Vickers

Josh Vickers has started in the past three league games. Paul Warne decided to make a change at the goalkeeper position and it is unclear as to if and when he plans on switching back to Wildsmith.

Left back: Callum Elder

Callum Elder will likely get another start this evening due to an injury to Craig Forsyth. Elder will have the chance to cement his place in the starting XI with a good performance tonight.

Centre back: Curtis Nelson

Curtis Nelson has played every minute of League One football this season and so Paul Warne will have no doubts in starting the centre back again tonight.

Centre back: Eiran Cashin

Eiran Cashin, much like Curtis Nelson has been instrumental in Derby's back line this season. He will need to be on form against Reading yet again.

Right back: Kane Wilson

Kane Wilson is expected to start again tonight in place of Ryan Nyambe who is out on international duty with Namibia at the African Cup of Nations.

Centre midfield: Conor Hourihane

Conor Hourihane has been one of the best players for Derby County over the past few games. He will be a big part of the Rams promotion hopes and will be hoping to make a difference again this evening.

Centre midfield: Max Bird

Max Bird is a nailed on start each and every week, but has been somewhat quiet lately. Paul Warne has wanted the midfielder to have more of an attacking impact. Tonight will be another chance to showcase his ability.

Centre midfield: Louie Sibley

Louie Sibley has been very inconsistent over the course of Derby's season. Sibley has all the talent but is yet to make a big impact and so he will be keen to make a difference should he start tonight.

Left wing: Corey Blackett-Taylor

Corey Blackett-Taylor signed for the Rams this week and will be available to make a start tonight. He didn't play for Charlton at the weekend and so he should be all ready to go. Blackett-Taylor will be keen to show why he was the right addition for Paul Warne's side.

Right wing: Nathaniel Mendez-Laing

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing is a crucial part of Derby's good form as of late. He will no doubt start this evening against Reading.

Striker: James Collins

James Collins has been fantastic as of late, scoring 12 goals all season in League One. He will be hoping for another goal again tonight as they face a Reading side who have struggled at the back recently.