Derby climb into the top two with win at struggling Charlton

Nathaniel Mendez-Laing’s seventh League One goal of the season sealed a 1-0 win for Derby at Charlton.

The Rams have won six of their last eight away matches and have moved into the second automatic promotion spot.

Former Luton, Southampton and Stoke boss Nathan Jones, set to be appointed as Michael Appleton’s successor by the Addicks, watched from an executive box as the south-east London club’s winless league run extended to 12 matches.

Mendez-Laing put the Rams in front in the 31st minute, finishing confidently after Macaulay Gillesphey’s pass was intercepted by Max Bird.

Mendez-Laing, who had been off the pitch just before that receiving treatment, was forced off seven minutes later with an injury and replaced by Tom Barkhuizen.

Tyreeq Bakinson drove over from Tayo Edun’s cutback but otherwise the hosts struggled to create chances in a first half that was disrupted by stoppages.

Charlton substitute Daniel Kanu had a header tipped over by Derby goalkeeper Josh Vickers in the 58th minute.

Bird weaved his way into the box before sliding his shot wide of the post shortly after the hour mark, but one goal proved enough for the Rams.