3/1 To Win
Midfielder Tom Huddlestone knows it will be a tough test against Premier League side Chelsea tomorrow night but believes Derby County are full of confidence at the minute and have it in them to cause an upset.
The Rams already have form in this competition, beating Manchester United in a penalty-shootout in the third round of the competition at Old Trafford.
It was the performance that was the most pleasing aspect of that victory as Frank Lampard’s side dominated the Red Devils in their own back yard, despite falling behind early on into the game.
“It gave the team at the time a lot of confidence that we can go to one of the biggest stadiums and against one of the biggest teams in the world and perform on the big stage,” Huddlestone said in his pre-match press conference.
“Wednesday night will be no different against a good Chelsea team who are unbeaten this season. We are going into the game in good confidence after the last three performances.
“As much as we are not expected to get a result, we are going there full of confidence that we can put on a good performance and get a positive result.
“Chelsea have a deep enough squad to change the whole squad if they need to but whichever 11 they put out it will be a difficult test. They have a team full of internationals, so it will be a tough test but it’s one we have to relish and go in there with confidence.”
Huddlestone has cemented his place back in the side following three impressive performances since his reintroduction.
He won the Sky Sports Man of the Match for his display in the impressive 1-4 victory over West Bromwich Albion last week and has been an instrumental figure in midfield.
The midfielder has endured a frustrating start to the season after suffering a pre-season injury, however, he is now back to full fitness and thriving in role.
“The manager wants me to protect the back four and be the transition into the attacking five. It’s ideal for me,” he admitted.
“All the young lads are comfortable on the ball and what the manager has drilled into the players this season is their work rate without the ball and everyone is buying into that and that is causing teams to make a lot more mistakes higher up the pitch.
“We have got a nice mixture in the squad of experienced players who will not get carried away with the praise, and equally, if we lose a few games we won’t get too disheartened with the criticism.
“The young lads are expressing themselves and being fearless so they’re enjoying their football at the moment.
“It’s enjoyable to be a part of. I give the lads little bits of advice but as you have seen with their performances, the young players have been excellent so far this season.”
