By Craig Hope

IT was just six weeks ago that a resilient Derby County left Tyneside with a point having fought their way to a goalless draw on a frost-bitten night at St.James' Park.

The Rams, under the guidance of Nigel Clough, have since enjoyed an upturn in fortunes and have used that display as a springboard to a run of four wins from eight matches.

The Pride Park club currently hover three points and four places above the drop zone, but are still within touching distance of a cluster of teams harbouring playoff ambitions.

And Chris Hughton, mindful of Derby's mental and physical fortitude from that December draw at Gallowgate, expects another testing encounter when the two sides meet on the banks of the River Derwent on Tuesday night.

"They played very well at St.James' at a time when we thought they were going through a sticky period," reflected the United boss.

"We had a lot of chances that night and probably should have won the game, although they had their moments also.

"Their form had been very up and down but they're better than that now. They have a more settled side and have players back from injury.

"They are in good form and go into the game on the back of a good win against Nottingham Forest and a draw at Sheffield United when maybe they deserved more.

"They will be buoyed by that and will be looking to continue with their good run and get as high up that table as they can.

"They used that draw up here as a springboard for a good run and they are in form.

"But, as ever, it's about us taking our game to them and getting the result we want."