Derby manager John Gregory praised the inspirational efforts of Giorgi Kinkladze after his team's 2-2 draw with Sheffield Wednesday.

Gregory's team were reduced to 10-men when Warren Barton was dismissed after 27 minutes.

But Kinkladze was in superb form for the Rams, who took a 2-1 lead and seemed to be heading for victory until the Owls scored a last-minute equaliser.

Kinkladze had a hand in both Derby's goal and afterwards Gregory said: "He's an inspirational player for us.

I still see this as a point gained Chris Turner

"He has made a massive contribution over the last five games".

"The rest of the team are probably his biggest fans, they appreciate he not only has great quality but he also rolls his sleeves up and works hard all over the pitch."

Wednesday manager Chris Turner was pleased with his team's point despite coming so close to victory.

"I still see this as a point gained," said Turner.

"We played well in the first half and I think it's fair to say there were a few decisions that mystified John Gregory and myself.

"We should have had a penalty and they should have had one when they were 2-1 up.

"We played well for long periods of the game and we didn't drop our heads and came back, but we gave two goals away when we were in command of the match."

Sheffield Wednesday striker Lloyd Owusu was caught by goalkeeper Lee Grant as he lobbed the ball goalwards but referee Mike Ryan waved play on.

And in the second half Derby's Lee Morris was clearly tripped by Carl Robinson but again Ryan turned down the penalty appeals.