Derby County vs Sheffield Wednesday

I know this has nothing to do with the teams tagged, but what a game in prospect tomorrow.

Two teams I personally consider among the "top clubs" - probably because they were top flight when I was a kid.

The scenario for Derby is quite clear - win and stay up. If they don't, then it becomes a bit more complicated. A Sheffield Wednesday win means they finish above Derby - but not necessarily safe. Rotherham United, away at in form Cardiff City, then become very interested. A Rotherham win combined with Derby not winning means the Millers stay up.

Derby County started the season as one of the clubs expected to be in the fight for promotion. Last seasons 10th placed finish was their lowest in 8 years, with a run of 4 defeats and a draw in the last 6 games killing them off. They kept faith with Philip Cocu over the summer, but 1 win in their first 15 this season was a disaster. Cocu was sacked in November, and replaced first by Rooney and friends, before Rooney took permanent control. After an upturn in results - 9 wins and 4 draws in 18 - safety was looking achieveable. However, 6 defeats in a row have left Derby in a perilous position.

For Sheffield Wednesday, the season started fighting on and off the pitch. They were hit with a 12 point deduction, but managed to get it reduced to what still looks like a very costly 6 points. Garry Monk lost his job around the same time as Cocu, replaced with safe hands Tony Pulis. Unfortunately, Pulis could not buy a win and a 9 match winless run left the Owls bottom of the table. Despite finally getting a win, Pulis was sacked at Christmas. A run with a caretaker manager saw 5 wins in 7 to lift them briefly outside the bottom 3. During a run of 7 defeats, Darren Moore was employed with many believing Wednesday doomed. Despite only picking up 12 points from the last 17 games, they still have a chance.

I doubt it will be a pretty game, but this is what football is all about isn't it? Drama.