Derby County manager Nigel Pearson has said that "improved results" are required quickly in order to turn the club's season around.

The Rams had been tipped as one of the pre-season promotion favourites but have picked up just one win and lost five times in their opening nine games to leave them in the Championship relegation zone.

"We've got scope to freshen it up with the players that we have available and I may well do that," Pearson told reporters ahead of Tuesday's trip to fellow strugglers Cardiff City.

"Whichever team takes to the field; we need an improved outcome. Performances are one thing; we need improved results to steady the nerves somewhat."

Pearson also revealed that Johnny Russell has overcome a calf injury and will feature in South Wales, while on-loan Manchester United striker James Wilson is also back in contention.