Defensive worries for Davies

Derby manager Billy Davies is facing a defensive crisis ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash with Everton.

Central defenders Dean Leacock and Claude Davis are both doubtful with groin injuries for the visit of the Toffees, while back and hamstring problems seem set to rule Andy Todd out of the Pride Park meeting.

There is better news, however, on full-back Jay McEveley (neck), with Rams boss Davies “hopeful” the Scotland international will be passed fit.

Provisional squad: Bywater, Griffin, Moore, Malcolm, Teale, Davis, Camara, McEveley, Todd, Oakley, Mears, Pearson, Barnes, Fagan, Howard, Price, Earnshaw, Miller, Jones, Leacock, Lewis.