James Pullen will start in goal for the reserves tonight as they face Derby at Portman Road (KO 7pm). The keeper made a disappointing league debut for the Blues against Grimsby on Saturday.

Pullen's appearance in the reserves could mean either of two things: That Joe Royle has decided to start with Andy Marshall at Norwich on Sunday, or that he wants Pullen to get a confidence boosting 90 minutes under his belt ahead of the trip to Carrow Road.

Royle will also have a chance to watch Martijn Reuser, Matt Richards, Richard Naylor and Alun Armstrong tonight ahead of Sunday's crucial game.

Also included in the starting line-up are striker Dean Bowditch and midfielder Antonio Murray. Both youngsters have been training with the first team and last week Joe Royle indicated that the pair could be part of his first team plans as soon as the beginning of next season.

Town: James Pullen, Matt Bloomfield, Matt Richards, Lee Chaffey, Richard Naylor, Chris Hogg, Antonio Murray, Ian Westlake, Alun Armstrong, Dean Bowditch and Martijn Reuser. Subs: Sam Morrow, Scott Peat, Scott Mitchell, Matt Robinson and Erkan Okay.

Photo: Action Images

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