Positives from the game but how about some points

Billy Davies stil finds positives in defeat

Billy Davies is in danger of becoming a stuck record when it comes to aftermatch comments. Talking after yet another goalless away defeat at Villa Park he can still "take away some positives". The fans however would like to see some points or at least a goal or two. Yet again Derby County's record signing, Rob Earnshaw was left on the bench until the Rams were two goals down.

With first choice striker Kenny Miller out injured most people were expecting to see Rob Earnshaw step into the Miller role and be Billy's "Fox in the Box" that Davies had claimed he would be after capturing the Welsh International for £3.5m

It was old favourite Steve Howard who was again preferred up front to Rob Earnshaw, maybe for his shear physical presence or his ability to win the long punt up field, which is increasingly used by a Rams side devoid of any midfield creativity.

Rob Earnshaw, a Welsh International striker, must feel like the forgotten man at Pride Park

Earnshaw must now be wondering when, if ever a starting position will come his way and give him the chance to show what he can do. An idea scenario may be to play the two International strikers, Miller and Earnshaw, as a fast moving pair, rather than the somewhat statuesque Howard or combination of Howard and Miller.

Davies however prefers to tinker with using Craig Fagan or Giles Barnes as midfield/strikers rather than the out and out striking ability of Earnshaw.

One thing is for sure the pressure on Billy Davies and his selections must be mounting after 630 minutes of goalless football on the Rams travels this season...