Derby County v Blackburn Rovers - Peter White's big match preview

THERE'S no chance of Derby County boss Jim Smith going grey, as he ponders his choices to replace the suspended Costa Rican ace Paulo Wanchope against Blackburn Rovers at Pride Park tomorrow.

And the former Ewood manager is hardly the type to get out the worry beads - if indeed he has any.

Jamaica's World Cup striker Deon Burton is the red-hot tip to step up and forge a new striking partnership with Dean Sturridge.

But the Bald Eagle might just be forced to scratch that distinctive pate, which gave him his nickname, a time or two before settling another Pride Park quandary - whether to find a place for Jonathan Hunt.

And it's an interesting call for Smith.

Hunt, who can play either midfield or forward roles, handed out a timely reminder that he does not want to become Derby's forgotten man by scoring the winner in their last home game against Middlesbrough. And, along with Ewood old boy Lars Bohinen, he is rapping firmly on the selection door, keen to prove he is the man to help push County's claims for a European place.

The 27-year-old Hunt has pleaded with his manager to give him a chance and, with Wanchope banned and midfielder Darryl Powell a doubt because of a knee injury, there could well be a vacancy.

If he gets the nod, Rovers will face a player hungry to succeed at Premiership level, after joining Derby from Birmingham for £500,000 in May 1997.

And he is hoping his matchwinner, last time out at Pride Park, will give his manager a nudge in the right direction. Confined to sub appearances so far this season, Hunt feels the time is right for him to start.

"I feel it's no fault of my own. The gaffer's got selections to make and he's made them," said Hunt.

"I'm not upset with him in any way but, if I'm not playing, it's no good for me.

"Playing reserve-team football is not easy for someone my age.

"It gets a bit depressing, though in the last few weeks I've been feeling a bit better."

That surge in spirits has followed regular excursions from the bench, including his moment of glory as the Rams rounded off their 1998 programme at Pride Park with a win over Middlesbrough.

Hunt started both games against Rovers last season, including Derby's home fixture when they won 3-1 - Sturridge and Wanchope sharing the goals.

And he desperately wants to make his mark in the Premiership, with Derby.

"I don't really want to leave. If I'm going to play here I want to stay because it's a great club.

"But it's not a case of trying to force my way in now. I've been trying to force my way in since I joined.

"I've worked hard behind the scenes. It's not easy, but what can I do?"

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