Jewell fears Derby risk being ‘tortured’ by United

DERBY manager Paul Jewell has warned his team they face getting “tortured” by Manchester United today — if they fear the champions.

The rock-bottom Rams suffered the latest in a long line of humiliating defeats in midweek — a 6-1 thrashing at Chelsea — and the beleaguered County boss concedes the visit of the Red Devils to Pride Park could be an even more difficult game.

Jewell has demanded his team show courage and hopes they will be “stung into action” by Alex Ferguson’s side, who will return to the top for at least a few hours if they secure the three points.

Asked if a game against United was the worst possible fixture on the back of Wednesday’s defeat at Stamford Bridge, Jewell replied: “It can be if we don’t approach the game in a positive manner.

“We have to approach the game being brave on the ball and off the ball. We have to try and get stung into action somehow.

“I was a little bit embarrassed the other night against a wonderful team and we are playing an equally good, if not better team tomorrow.

“If the lads go out there and give it everything they’ve got but get beaten by the better team, no problem.

“If we are fearful of playing Manchester United, they’ll get tortured.”