Australian midfielder Ruben Zadkovich is set to finally make his Derby County debut in this evening's Reserve League Cup clash at Walsall.

The 22-year-old joined the Rams in April but wasn't going to be able to make his bow until after his Olympic Games duty with his country in August.

But he came back from Beijing requiring a hernia operation and has been working hard to get back to full fitness.

Zadkovich is expected to feature at the Banks's Stadium alongside the likes of Gary Teale and Przemyslaw Kazmierczak as Derby look to build on their 3-1 victory over Oldham Athletic in their opening group game last month.

"I have only ever seen Ruben in training and playing for Australia - never in a Derby County shirt," said Rams boss Paul Jewell.

"But he is very enthusiastic, he has a great attitude and he will be itching to play."

Derby are without a senior game until October 18 but Jewell plans to get match action under the belts for some of his squad players.

Jewell will be without several players due to injury and suspension for the visit of Plymouth Argyle but he is keen to give his men a run.

"We are short of bodies so there is a risk in playing one or two but I would rather they have a game under their belt in case they are called in to the first-team," the gaffer added.

Tonight's game kicks off at the Banks's Stadium at 7pm, with admission payable on the gate at £3 for adults and £1 for concessions.

The Rams' final home match in the group stage is on Wednesday November 19, when they host Mansfield Town at the Impact Arena - home of Alfreton Town - with a 2pm kick-off.