Derby County hit by major injury blow ahead of Stoke City clash

Derby County defender Sondre Langas faces roughly three months on the sidelines after suffering a severe groin injury during a 4-1 loss against Queens Park Rangers. Scans confirmed the center-back requires surgery and is expected to be out until January, leaving Dion Sanderson as the club's only fit senior central defender ahead of their match against Stoke City.

Manager Eustace confirmed the 12-to-13-week absence following evaluations in London. Derby's defense is further depleted with Eiran Cashin and Matt Clarke out until November, while key striker Patrick Agyemang and goalkeeper Jacob Widell Zetterstrom remain sidelined. Stoke City also faces absences, missing Sam Gallagher, Svante Ingelsson, Aaron Cresswell, and Ato Ampah.