My close friend Jamie has been through it with injury over last three months, says Davies

BEN Davies is keeping his fingers crossed that Jamie Ward's latest injury setback is not too serious.

Ward returned to action for Derby County on Saturday after three months out with a torn hamstring.

The forward scored a penalty soon after coming off the bench to earn the Rams a 1-1 draw with Charlton Athletic at the Valley.

However, his comeback was short-lived as he hobbled off injured in the closing stages of the match.

Derby boss Nigel Clough is hoping Ward's withdrawal was more precautionary than anything else, though he is expected to sit out today's home match against high-flying Middlesbrough.

Davies has a great deal of sympathy for his team-mate.

"He's a close mate or mine, Wardy, and it's not nice to see," said the midfielder.

"He's been through a lot over the last two or three months and I know he's been down with it.

"He's hoping it's not as bad as we first thought.

"It was an impact thing, so with a bit of luck, it was more precautionary than anything.

"He was lively when he came on and it was disappointing that he had to go off but we'll try to get him fit as soon as we can."

Unfortunately, hamstring injuries are nothing new for Northern Ireland international Ward.

"He's had problems all his career, as long as I've known him," said Davies.

"You do have to be really careful and I don't think the conditions at Charlton helped.

"Hopefully, though, we can get him right again in a few days.

"With his history, we don't want it to be going again."

Davies was handed his first start of the season at the weekend – and hopes to keep his place in the side against third-placed Middlesbrough, who beat Blackpool 4-2 on Saturday.

"It's a great game for us, on New Year's Day, in front of a big crowd, against a team who are flying at the moment," said the former Notts County wide man.

"We know they will be a big test for us but we've been excellent at home this season.

"And, hopefully, we can get three points and go into the FA Cup game against Tranmere knocking on the door of the play-offs."

The draw at Charlton ensured Derby did not end 2012 with three straight defeats.

"The result was important – and so was the performance," said Davies.

"We looked a lot more solid and resolute.

"I know they hit the bar but other than that, apart from the goal, I can't remember them having too many chances.

"We always looked comfortable and in control of the game.

"And it's a point away from home, which stops the rot a bit.

"Now we'll look to build on it."