Rowett Expects Ledley To Be Involved In Blues Matchday Squad

Gary Rowett told the media this morning that he expects Joe Ledley to be involved in his matchday squad on Saturday when Derby County face Birmingham City at Pride Park Stadium.

The 30-year-old Wales international joined the club earlier this week on a free transfer that will keep him at the club until January at least.

He has been without a club since departing Crystal Palace at the end of his contract, following the conclusion of the 2016/17 season.

That said, Rowett, the Derby manager, says Ledley looks ‘fitter than you would expect’ considering how long he has been out the game for.

On the midfielder, he told the media at his pre-match press conference: “We brought Joe Ledley in and Joe looks a lot fitter than you would expect for someone who has been out of the game for so long.

“There is a good chance that he could be involved. It might be too soon for him to start the game and chuck him into that environment, but he will be involved and we will monitor that today.

“We spoke to the Welsh staff and he trained with the last squad about four or five weeks ago. They said he wasn’t far off his normal levels and they felt he was fit enough to play in the games.

“You can understand why Chris Coleman didn’t play him, but he was disappointed that he didn’t play and that tells you where he thinks he is at.

“He’s not match sharp, but he’s not far from being in that position. We wouldn’t have brought him in if we felt he was five or six weeks away.

“He looks a naturally fit lad, he looks in good shape and he’s not far away from being available.”

Rowett has also given update on several other members of his squad.

The manager says he expects both Curtis Davies and Matej Vydra to be passed fit to retain their places in the starting XI after sustaining minor injuries a week ago.

The 43-year-old has also given an update on George Thorne and Max Lowe.

Rowett said: “George Thorne pulled out of the Under-23s game through illness and has not trained very much since.

“He is due to train today (Friday), but I don’t think he will be involved in the game due to that. That’s frustrating.

“Max Lowe is coming on quite well. He trained with the Under-23s yesterday, but is still some way away from full training and full match playing.

“Curtis Davies has had a bit of a tight groin, but we hope he will be available, Matej Vydra has had a couple of kicks, but again, he should be available. It’s pretty much a case of game on.”