JAKE Buxton returns to the Derby County side for Saturday's Championship clash with Sheffield Wednesday at Hillsborough (3pm).
Buxton was rested for Monday's Capital One Cup win at Carlisle United as he recovers from a hip problem.
He replaces Zak Whitbread at centre-back.
Elsewhere, Jamie Ward and Simon Dawkins retain their places out wide, so Johnny Russell, who started the opening day victory over Rotherham United, has to settle for a place on the bench.
Conor Sammon's loan move to Ipswich Town leaves an extra space among the substitutes, which is filled by Lee Naylor.
Derby coach Paul Simpson said: "Jake is fine. To be honest, he could have played on Monday but we used the game to make sure he was right for this weekend.
"Zak Whitbread had a run-out and I have to say I think it is a little unfortunate on Zak. I thought he was excellent.
"We are delighted to have Jake back with us, because we know it is going to be a tough, physical battle today and I think tough, physical battles are right up Jake Buxton's street."
On the inclusion of former Sheffield United man Ward, Simpson added: "The fact he is an ex-Blade might inspire him a little bit more against Sheffield Wednesday today.
"Again, it was a tricky decision to go with Ward ahead of Johnny Russell but it is a decision the head coach has made and we are confident."
Former Derby forward Chris Maguire starts for the Owls, as does ex-Burton Albion man Jacques Maghoma.
And Stuart Gray gives a debut to new striker Stevie May following his £800,000 move from St Johnstone.
SHEFFIELD WEDNESDAY: Westwood, Mattock, Lees, Loovens, Hutchinson, Lee, Palmer, Maghoma, Maguire, May, Nuhiu. Subs: Kirkland (gk), Semedo, Coke, McCabe, Helan, Zayatte, Madine.
DERBY COUNTY: Grant, Christie, Keogh, Buxton, Forsyth, Hughes, Hendrick, Bryson, Ward, Dawkins, Martin. Subs: Roos (gk), Naylor, Whitbread, Eustace, Mascarell, Russell, Best.
REFEREE: S Duncan (Northumberland).
