SIMON Dawkins is not expected to be fit in time for Derby County's next match.
The Rams return to action after the international break with a trip to Reading on Saturday, October 18.
Dawkins has missed the past three matches due to a hip flexor problem.
It had been hoped he would be available for the Championship encounter at the Madejski Stadium but he looks like missing out again.
"It's been a little bit slow with Simon Dawkins," said Derby coach Paul Simpson.
"He's only just out starting to run again this week.
"Next week will be too soon for him but we'll hopefully have him available for the week after."
Goalkeeper Kelle Roos is back in training after missing the last two matches with a dead leg.
"Kelle Roos has been out doing some very light work with Eric Steele," said Rams coach Paul Simpson.
"Hopefully, next week, he should be able to join back in training, if he doesn't have any effects from the work he is doing.
"We've identified that there's no other damage apart from the dead leg.
"So if he's right, he'll be involved but if not, we won't take any chances."
In the absence of Roos, 19-year-old Jonathan Mitchell – signed in the summer from Newcastle United – has provided back-up for Lee Grant on the bench.
"It's been a very good experience for him," said Simpson. "He's done very well since he came in over the summer and being involved in the first team will help him develop."
