Frank Lampard expects plenty of ups and downs

Derby County manager Frank Lampard has said that there could be plenty of ups and downs in the final weeks of the season. The Rams are currently five points behind the playoff places but Lampard remains optimistic about the club’s chances of making the top six before the campaign concludes next month.

Speaking to Rams TV, the former Chelsea star said that the club must bounce back from the disappointing result in midweek and they have plenty of positives, given fifth-placed Aston Villa and sixth-placed Bristol City are prepared to tackle each other this weekend, he said: “We have to win games. We are in the race and come off the back of a disappointing performance and result against Blackburn Rovers in midweek but there are many twists to come.

“If we win at the weekend at home where we have been good this season then we will be three points outside the play-offs. Aston Villa play Bristol City so no matter what happens, if we get a result, we will be close. There are results that surprise you every weekend because the division is so competitive from top to bottom and we are getting to a critical part now.”

“Derby’s form has been average over the past few months and they recently suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat at Blackburn Rovers“ where they managed a single shot on target. Nonetheless, they can bounce back with the “home game this weekend“ where they entertain a struggling Bolton Wanderers outfit.

Bolton are currently nine points adrift of safety with just five games remaining, and that could play into the hands of Derby, given the Trotters could deploy an attacking approach to go for the win. Derby still need to be wary of Phil Parkinson’s side after the surprise 1-0 loss during the reverse meeting. Derby managed just one shot on target in that game despite holding three-fourths of the possession.