Richard O’Donnell: Derby boss backs keeper after Vickers setback

In between those Championship appearances, however, he featured 240 times at League One and League Two level with Rotherham, Northampton Town, Bradford City, Rochdale, Blackpool and Grimsby.

“We have full confidence in Rich, he has stepped up twice already this season and been outstanding,” Eustace said.

“The way he trains and he applies himself every day in training means he will be ready for the remaining amount of games.”

With Derby’s top two keepers out, 19-year-old Jack Thompson will be promoted to the senior squad from the academy.

And while Thompson has yet to make a first-team appearance for Derby, he got experience playing for Braintree Town on loan in the National League earlier this season.

Eustace also said that there would be no option to bring in an emergency loan cover for as long as O’Donnell remains fit.