Updates on star midfielder and more: Derby County latest injury news

Derby County have finally managed to work their way into the playoff places as they sit in sixth.

Having faced injury issues all year long, Paul Warne will be hoping that he can keep his side as fit as possible heading into the busy winter period.

They come off the back of a 2-1 win over Bristol Rovers at the weekend and face a trip to Port Vale this evening as they look to make it four league wins in a row.

Here is the latest injury news ahead of tonight's game.

Max Bird

Max Bird came off the field on Saturday afternoon as he was complaining about an eye injury. However, it seems he is well and available for tonight's game and so it shouldn't be an issue.

Conor Washington

Conor Washington had been fully fit until he left on International duty two weeks ago. He is suffering from an ankle injury. He has suffered damage to two ligaments and will undergo surgery.

He is likely to be sidelined for the next three months.

Callum Elder

Callum Elder has been very unlucky with injuries since joining the club in the summer. He is doubtful for the game tonight as he is recovering from an ankle injury that he suffered against Wolves U21s at the start of the month.

He is training again but it is unclear when he will return.

Korey Smith

Korey Smith picked up a knock on his knee in the Rams' last game against Bristol Rovers. He is a doubt for tonight's game against Port Vale.

It is likely that he will be available for Derby's next game against Fleetwood Town next week in the EFL Trophy.

Liam Thompson

Thompson is back on grass but yet to return to full training. It is still unlikely that he will return soon but the youngster should be back before the new year.

Jake Rooney is recovering from surgery that he faced after suffering an ACL injury against Bolton in late August.

He will likely be out for the remainder of the season.