Do you know this man? New striker plays for reserves tonight

Last updated : 05 February 2002 By

Does anyone recognise this man?

Branko in action against Villa
Branko Strupar in action against Villa just prior to his injury on 3rd March last year
Yes Branko Strupar will play his first match for Derby County in eleven months tonight. Strupar is set to play in tonight's reserve team game at the Valley against Charlton Athletic (7-00pm).

Strupar seen here in action against Aston Villa (24th Feb 2001) in a game the Rams won 1-0. It was just one week before scoring two goals in a 2-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur and the last time he has pulled on the Derby County shirt since.

A multitude of injuries and set backs have hampered Strupar fight for fitness but after several weeks of light training he reappears tonight which must be a relief for himself and good news for new boss John Gregory.

Branko Strupar
Strupar would be major asset to Gregory's attacking options

If Branko can recreate his form prior to his injury, which was 6 goals from eight full appearances, it will give Gregory another string to his bow in attack.

Brian O'Neil is also set to have a run out in tonight's match in a bid to regain full match fitness after his lengthy absence with an ankle injury