Don't judge Ishmael Miller on goals alone.
That’s the message from Chris Powell as Huddersfield Town gear up to tackle Derby County at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Striker Miller has featured in every game this season, but has still to open his account.
That’s brought criticism from some sections of Town’s support.
But boss Powell, whose 14th-placed side are seeking a second successive Championship win and third straight clean sheet, says the former Manchester City man is playing a vital role.
“I know strikers are judged on goals,” said Powell, a former Derby player.
“And I know Ishmael has had chances and not put them away.
“I believe the goals will come, and I know he is doing a good job for us in other ways.
“He often occupies two centre-backs, not just one, and that opens up space for others.
“And he put the pressure on the MK Dons defender which led to the mistake from which Nahki Wells got his goal on Tuesday.
“The other players appreciate what he does, believe me.”
The clash with seventh-placed Derby brings a reunion with midfielder Jacob Butterfield, who left Town in a £5m deal at the start of last month.
“He’s a very talented player, one of the best I have managed,” added Powell.
“Jacob was our Player of Year last season, he scored some wonderful goals and excited the fans.
“But it was a good deal for our club, the player wanted to move and he went with our best wishes.
“We miss him, but we have moved on.
“I hope he will get a good reception from our fans and I am sure he will.”
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Derby will bring a sell-out 3,800-plus following for a game which could feature a return for Town winger Muzzy Carayol.
He missed Tuesday’s 2-0 home win over MK Dons due to a family bereavement.
Kyle Dempsey is back in training after illness while fellow midfielder Jonathan Hogg has been able to do some outside work as he steps up his return from a thigh problem.
