Derby has withdrawn Eddie Lewis from the United States' friendly at South Africa because of the effect the trip could have on the midfielder.
The 33-year-old Lewis had been picked for Saturday's match in Johannesburg, but Rams manager Billy Davies wants to keep the winger fresh for his team's fight to stay in the Premier League. "What with all the traveling and the nature of the game, we thought it would be best to keep him here," Davies said Tuesday.
Derby is bottom of the Premier League after winning just one of 13 games, of which Lewis has played eight.
Benny Feilhaber, who has played just three games this season for Derby, will still join the United States squad.
"Benny will go as it will be good for him to be involved and get the minutes on the pitch," Davies said.
