Six wins from seven, three goals and assists… Leeds United star’s record against Derby County is superb

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Leeds United will be looking to get back to winning ways on Saturday afternoon when Derby County travel to Elland Road, as the two sides rekindle a rivalry after a four-year absence.

Leeds and Derby became rivals during Marcelo Bielsa’s first season as manager at Elland Road. Spygate, followed by a two-legged affair in the play-off semi-finals saw Leeds and Derby become intense rivals.

But the following season, Leeds were promoted as Champions and after another two seasons in 2021-22, Derby were relegated. The Rams are back in the second tier and it sees the two sides do battle again.

Derby’s aim this season will be to simply avoid relegation and reaffirm Championship status, with Paul Warne’s side currently sitting in 15th place. LeedsUnited.News predict a 3-0 home win for The Whites.

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Joe Rothwell’s record against Derby is actually remarkable

The 29-year-old is obviously experienced at this level. Having started the previous 10 Championship games, it is expected the on-loan man will remain in the starting line-up when Leeds play host to Derby.

Stuart Dallas described Rothwell as “tremendous” and while he struggled against old side Blackburn, Daniel Farke will surely want to keep him in the starting XI, not least because of his record against Derby.

Indeed, Rothwell has played seven times throughout his career against Derby. In that time, the technician has won six matches and clocked up 18 points, scoring once from midfield and laying on two assists.

Joe Rothwell’s career form against Derby County in numbers

Of course, Leeds lack cover for Rothwell anyway and even if his form over the last few weeks was a bit mediocre, it is likely he would still remain in the middle of the park alongside Japan star Ao Tanaka.

Joe Rothwell’s career form against Derby County:

Clearly, Rothwell likes playing against Derby and while Leeds last faced Derby back in 2020, Rothwell was in action against Derby twice in 2021-22 for Blackburn – lasting 90 minutes in both games, winning twice.

Had Farke had other midfield options available to him, he might have been tempted to drop Rothwell on Saturday. There is a growing trend, Rothwell shines when Leeds dominate but struggles when they don’t.