Clough's side lie six points above the relegation zone

Derby County manager Nigel Clough was left to rue his side's defensive frailties after seeing them lose 4-1 against high-flying Cardiff City.

"The overall performance was very good," Clough told BBC Radio Derby.

"But it seemed glaringly obvious that the difference between the two sides was the centre-halves and their centre-halves were outstanding.

"All four of the goals were down the centre of the pitch. It's disappointing but we have to improve."

Clough's men are still six points clear of fierce rivals Nottingham Forest, who currently occupy the final relegation place.

The Rams also have a game in hand on Forest but Clough is adamant he will not rest until survival is certain.

"It's all about staying in the Championship - end of story," Clough said. "We will look at everything else after that.

"Other teams still have to win games below us and we don't know if we need any more points yet.

"We think we will need one or two and as long as we play like we did going forward here, we will get them."

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