Rooney Dismisses 'Free Hit' Tag for Pilgrims' Clash with Leeds United

Rooney Not Expecting Easy Ride at Elland Road

Wayne Rooney has rubbished suggestions that Derby County will be a "free hit" for Leeds United when the two sides meet in the Championship on Saturday. The Rams boss is expecting a tough test against Marcelo Bielsa's promotion-chasing side, despite their poor recent form.

Leeds United in Fine Fetch

Leeds United are flying high in the Championship, sitting top of the table with a seven-point cushion over third-placed Brentford. They have won their last four games in all competitions, scoring 13 goals in the process. Derby, on the other hand, have won just one of their last five games and are languishing in 18th place.

Derby Ready for Leeds Challenge

Despite the gulf in form between the two sides, Rooney is confident that Derby can get a result at Elland Road. He said: "We know it's going to be a tough game, but we're going there to win. We're not going to sit back and let them come at us. We're going to take the game to them and try to impose ourselves on them. We've got the players to do it and we're confident we can get a result."

Leeds United Injuries

Leeds United will be without key players Kalvin Phillips and Rodrigo for the clash with Derby. Phillips is suspended and Rodrigo is out with a hamstring injury. Derby, meanwhile, have no fresh injury concerns.