Breaking news this and huge blow for the visitors. This is, of course, a player that was just named Championship player of the month for November.

Steve McClaren has guided Derby to five successive wins. Those not entirely happy with his reappointment may be coming round.

But the former England boss is a demanding fellow…

Image source, .

And the Forest team news...

Manager Philippe Montanier seems to have abandoned being the tinker man today and sticks with the starting line-up that got the better of nine-man Newcastle United eight days ago.

The biggest news is really on the bench, with striker Britt Assombalonga not part of the squad because of a hamstring injury.

Image source, .

Substitutes: Henderson, Traore, Pereira, Carayol, Vaughan, Vellios, Worrall.

Here's the team line-ups for today, starting with the hosts

Headline news is that Darren Bent starts for Derby up front, with Matej Vydra dropping to the bench.

Image source, .

Substitutes: Mitchell, Bryson, Shackell, Camara, Vydra, Weimann, Hanson.

Five wins in a row for the Rams brings plenty of expectation, while Forest also have a gathering optimism for the first time since the very start of the season after three straight wins.

I’m no expert but unless things get seriously weird this afternoon, one of these teams – possibly both – will see their winning runs come to an end.

Up for grabs, the Brian Clough Trophy! Of course, the great manager - along with Peter Taylor - worked with distinction at both clubs.

So, that eagerly anticipated December day is finally here - East Midlands Derby Day (what else!).

This is a match that always promises to have everything you would expect of the normal festive occasion - surprise, joy, a touch of disappointment and almost certainly a turkey of some sort.

Let's not delay and tuck straight in...

Image source, Rex Features

* These are the coolest and most footballer-esque looking turkeys I could find.