Bobby Clark readies huge Derby County boost ahead of Wrexham & Hull City showdown weekend | OneFootball

The 21-year-old midfielder just picked up the Rams' Young Player of the Season Award

Derby County’s bid for a Championship play‑off spot has gained extra intrigue ahead of a huge weekend involving Wrexham and Hull City.

The Rams remain firmly in the hunt for sixth place as the regular season reaches its conclusion, with John Eustace’s side knowing that their fate could be sealed depending on how results fall elsewhere.

There has already been a lot of focus on Derby’s attacking options in recent weeks, particularly due to the injuries of Patrick Agyemang, Rhian Brewster and Bobby Clark.

However, the last on that list, Clark, has now provided a hopeful boost for the East Midlands outfit ahead of what promises to be a tense weekend across the second tier.

Bobby Clark provides Derby County boost ahead of play-off battle with Wrexham, Hull City

To add some context, the Rams' head coach, Eustace, previously said that Clark wouldn't play for Derby again unless they actually reach the playoffs.

This came after the 21-year-old midfielder picked up a hamstring injury nine minutes into their 2-1 defeat to Southampton on 11th April.

But after being named Sammy Crooks Young Player of the Season at Derby County’s end-of-season awards on Tuesday night, Clark himself revealed he is ahead of schedule in his recovery and hopeful of returning to the squad this weekend.

Speaking to BBC Radio Derby’s Dominic Dietrich, Clark admitted he initially feared his campaign was over, but has made encouraging progress in recent days.

"I’ve recovered well, a bit quicker than we thought. Obviously thought that’d be my season done, but all goes well this week, hopefully I can be back in the mix on the weekend," he said.

The timing of that update could hardly be more important for Derby, as Eustace may now have the option of playing one of his most influential young players against Sheffield United.

Since joining on loan from RB Salzburg, Clark has made 44 appearances in a black and white shirt across all competitions, scoring four goals and managing three assists - which earned him a nomination for the EFL Championship Young Player of the Season Award.

How Derby County can pip Wrexham & Hull City to a Championship play-off spot

Derby will secure a play-off spot if they beat Sheffield United and both Wrexham and Hull fail to win their respective fixtures against Middlesbrough and Norwich City.

Due to the Rams' superior goal difference, even a draw against Blades could be enough, provided both of the aforementioned rivals lose.

Ultimately, although it's not in their hands, Eustace’s side must prepare for every scenario, and having additional attacking options available could prove decisive in getting them over the line.

Clark’s further comments also offered a glimpse into his mindset beyond this weekend, with the Liverpool loanee making it clear he has loved his time at Pride Park.

"Yeah, like I say, since the minute I came in here, I’ve loved every minute. I’ve enjoyed it with all the staff, all the players, the fans, they’ve made us feel so welcome.

"Yeah, I’d love to play for Derby again, that’s all I can say," he added, with a smirk.

With Wrexham and Hull City also facing tough fixtures of their own, all eyes will be on how the final matchday unfolds - and whether Clark can play a part in it.