JOHN Eustace will be handed a run-out in his more accustomed midfield role when Derby County face Port Vale in their second friendly of pre-season tonight.
Eustace is looking to earn a contract with the Rams and has been training with Nigel Clough's squad for the past two weeks.
The 33-year-old played in a back three in the first half of Saturday's 6-1 victory over League of Ireland Premier Division side Bohemians in Dublin.
He was joined by skipper Richard Keogh and Jake Buxton.
Clough said Eustace would play some part against Port Vale and more in his midfield position.
"It's not really a case of looking at him, we know what he can do," said Clough ahead of the match at Vale Park (7.30pm kick-off).
Derby have made four signings during the summer and are looking to move a number of players out, including Nathan Tyson, Theo Robinson, James Bailey and Tom Naylor.
Clough says bringing in Eustace does not rely on players going out.
"We will be speaking to his agent this week," said Clough. "It might depend on what John is looking for and whether we can get a package together to suit him in a one-year deal.
"I think he has got one or two other options but this is his preferred choice.
"We think he will be good to have around the place.
"We know that in the season you need reliable people to bring in.
"John knows we cannot guarantee him a start but know-how comes into it in the last 10 minutes or so of games, when you are winning 1-0 or drawing, and want to hang on to what you have.
"The thinking behind it is that John gives us a bit of flexibility.
"He can drop into the defence in such situations or be used in front of the back four.
"It would take quite a bit to change to a back three on a regular basis. We can experiment with the midfield and the attack but I think a back four is the best way forward."
Derby will use a back four against Port Vale and at Bristol Rovers on Friday night.
