Derby County are sweating on the fitness of Tom Lawrence ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Bristol City.

Lawrence has been a regular under Frank Lampard this season and started last night’s East Midlands derby with Nottingham Forest.

However, the winger was forced from the field in the 74th minute of the goalless draw after injuring his ankle in a challenge on the touchline.

The Derby Telegraph are now reporting that Derby will be monitoring and assessing the 24-year-old ahead of the weekend.

It’s a concern for Lampard heading into the festive period, with Lawrence featuring regularly under the former Chelsea midfielder so far this season.

He’s featured in 20 of the Rams’ 22 fixtures so far, scoring four goals in that time.

Discussing Lawrence with the Derby Telegraph, Lampard said: “Tom's got a bad ankle, a twist during the contact. It is to be assessed.”

Lampard’s side welcome Bristol City to Pride Park on Saturday before starting an extremely tough run of fixtures.

Over Christmas, Derby face trips to Sheffield United and Norwich City, then on New Year’s Day will take on Middlesbrough back at Pride Park.

An FA Cup clash against Southampton and a trip to Elland Road to face Leeds United then follow. 

The Verdict  

This is an obvious worry for Derby and Lampard.

Lawrence has been a regular at Pride Park over the course of the entire season and this injury could come at a terrible time.

Lampard and his side are about to embark on a real tough spell, so not having key man available will no doubt impact results.

Thoughts? Let us know!