Bolton Wanderers verdict on Derby County chances of promotion this weekend

Derby County have a massive chance this weekend to secure promotion to the Championship this weekend as they face an away trip to Cambridge United.

The Rams’ chances improved dramatically after their closest rivals Bolton Wanderers dropped points in a 2-2 draw on Tuesday night against Shrewsbury.

Their game with the Shrews was a game in hand on Derby and so now, instead of being one point behind Derby, they are three points behind.

If the Trotters drop points at the weekend, it could all but secure promotion for the Rams.

After their disappointing draw against Shrewsbury, Bolton manager Ian Evatt expressed his frustration and sounded as if he has resigned himself to a playoff place.

He told BBC Radio Manchester: “It's not over, we must remember that. It's five football matches in our eyes now. If a miracle happens then so be it.

"We have to let it go quickly and carry momentum through to the play-offs."

Evatt’s side have been Derby’s biggest challengers for that second automatic promotion place for some time now with Rams fans fearing the Trotters and their important game in hand.

However, now the outlook for Derby is looking much better, and Ian Evatt knows that.

He said: “It's possible but we have to be realistic. Derby have a fantastic chance of sealing the deal on Saturday.

"We have to make sure we get this place rocking and positive and aim to win five football matches. If we can do it at Wembley then I think everyone will enjoy themselves, that's how it has to be now."

Derby just need four points from their final two games and so a win against Cambridge could secure their spot in the Championship next season.