|
This week manager Nigel Clough took a back seat and it was assistant boss Johnny Metgod who spoke on behalf of the home team.
"The fact Burnley have a lot to play for us a big incentive for us," Metgod said. "We know they will come at us because this game is huge for them, as it is for us. They need to win to keep the pressure on the chasing pack, so it will be a very interesting match because I think we can give them a real game.
"At home I don't dread anyone coming to Pride Park. We can give anyone a game, as we've seen against Swansea and Leeds."
Eddie Howe has seen the Clarets give themselves a chance again of making the top six and, looking forward to the two Easter games, he said: "I think these two games will make or break our season. We've two difficult games, but we need to pick up points and results from both of them.
"We're going into the Derby game on the back of two great wins for us; difficult games but we played really well in both. We'll approach the Derby game with enthusiasm and in good spirits and see if we can match the performance we had against Middlesbrough.
"I don't see any reason why not. First and foremost we need to work as hard as we did in the Middlesbrough game, but what better way to go into the weekend?
"So, fingers crossed, we can match the performance. It's going to be a tough game though because Derby are in good form and their form has definitely improved as the season has gone on."