Derby County head coach Paul Warne is hoping for "good news" surrounding David Ozoh but admits patience is key regarding the on-loan midfielder's fitness.

Ozoh is still yet to return from a quad muscle injury that he picked up just as he was about to return from a hamstring problem he sustained in the win over Cardiff in September.

The on-loan Crystal Palace talent has still felt an awareness of his injury which has put the skids on a comeback with the January window around the corner. Warne was asked whether there will come a point where Derby have to make a decision on his season-long loan given how long he has been sidelined.

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But the Rams head coach is hoping for brighter news and said: "I don't think we are there yet (in terms of making a decision). "I like what David brought to the team although it seems like a long time ago.

"I feel for the kid because he is absolutely heartbroken. We've got to get him fit and then match fit. That's the thing. Coming back now it's like pre-season. It takes a long time to get fit. It's something we constantly monitor, but hopefully there is some good news with David soon."

While Ozoh was missing for the win over West Brom on Boxing Day, Ben Osborn tweaked his glute on Christmas Eve in the final part of a training session.

Warne is hoping he will back in time to face Leeds while Liam Thompson is still suffering from a minor issue picked up prior to the defeat at Luton.

"Ben tweaked his glute on Christmas Eve, but we're hopeful more than optimistic he will be able to play a part at the weekend," he said. It's the same with Thommo. We were hoping he would be back. We've got three central midfielders out at the minute which is never ideal."

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