'Refreshed' Warne upbeat after break

Derby County boss Paul Warne was in a refreshed and upbeat mood this morning at Moor Farm after a two-week international break which saw only two of his first-team players called away to international duty - midfielder Ebou Adams and goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom.

Warne now sets his sights on a busy period for the Rams which sees them with nine games before the new year in a variety of different kick-off times thanks to the new TV schedule.

The biggest takeaway from the press conference was the news of David Ozoh’s imminent return. Whilst Saturday at Preston will be too soon, Warne confirmed Ozoh will be back in full training with the squad next week.

The midfielder was a key part of all that was good about Derby in the opening six matches of the season before picking up an injury in the home victory against Cardiff in September.

His return will eventually come with heightened pressure but it's important to remember he is a 19-year old playing his first full season at senior level.

With Derby set to face Leeds twice, Burnley, Luton and West Brom across a tough December period, you'd have to think the Rams will want to try to make the most of Preston away next, followed by Swansea at home on Wednesday.

But, as with most Warne press conferences, it's all about the next game and every team in the Championship is strong.