Derby County boss Nigel Clough remains hopeful of keeping hold of injured on-loan Everton striker James Vaughan.

The Everton loanee had to return to Goodison Park with a knee injury after just two appearances for the Rams and will now be on the sidelines for at least six weeks.

Although Clough hopes to have Vaughan back in his squad before his loan deal expires in January, he is preparing to look for cover for the 21-year-old.

"He's going to be out for six to eight weeks so that takes us until mid-December," Clough told the Derby Telegraph. "We'll see how his rehab goes but he's someone we'll certainly look to bring back in January if he's fully fit.

"His injury was a big blow for us and we are contemplating a loan to replace James. It is something we'll be looking at this week."