Manager Frank Lampard could be without one of his key defenders for Sunday’s crucial Sky Bet Championship clash against West Bromwich Albion.
Richard Keogh, who has been an ever-present for the Rams this season, limped out of the 1-1 draw against Swansea City on Wednesday evening with a groin injury.
The captain has been receiving extensive treatment in a bid to be fit for Sunday’s game against the Baggies and the manager gave an update on his situation.
“Firstly, he has been more than ever-present, he has played in more minutes than any other player in the top two divisions domestically and he has played for his country,” Lampard told RamsTV.
“At the age of 32, that is some feat and eventually things can get you. We haven’t had opportunities to rest him or Tomori much.
“It is a small groin issue and we are trying, intensively, to get him fit for Sunday. He’s not clear yet, we are hopeful, but if not, we are hoping it is not an injury with any real severity to it.
“We will talk about it after Sunday as to whether he could be involved if we have more games.”
Wednesday’s game against the Swans was Keogh’s 59th appearance of the season for club and country and the manager paid tribute to the defender, who has impressed all season.
“I think Tomori winning the majority of the Player of the Year awards was right, but in an ideal world it would be shared between the two of them,” Lampard said.
“They have been outstanding as a pair and they both deserve absolute credit for the way they have played consistently throughout the season and the responsibility they have had.
“They have had no opportunities to rest or to take a breather and relax their legs. They have played midweek and weekend throughout the season and kept great levels, both of them.”
George Evans has stepped into the central defensive position twice in the last two games, after Tomori was taken off with a dead leg in the 2-0 ictory over Bristol City.
Evans hasn’t put a foot wrong in both games and could provide the cover needed, if required.
“We said after Bristol that George was a great example to everyone,” Lampard commented. “People that are subs or aren’t playing as regularly as they want need to be ready and come in and perform as George did.
“He was a credit there and I know if I need to call upon George then that level that he played against Bristol we will be happy.”
