Boss: I understand size of clash against Forest

Harry Wilson FRANK Lampard is relishing tonight’s East Midlands’ showdown between his Derby County side and rivals Nottingham Forest.

“I understand the size of this game,” said Lampard, who will taste the fixture for the first time having played in many derbies during an illustrious career with Chelsea, West Ham United and Manchester City.

And Lampard expects the Rams’ clash with the Reds to be up there with all the derbies he has experienced.

“I played in a lot of London derbies but one of the first things I realised when I got to Derby is this city is a one-club city and what it means to the people,” said Lampard.

“The next thing I realised is that Nottingham is pretty much the next door neighbour and the history between the clubs and what it means to both sets of fans.

“I speak to fans every day pretty much and I have a strong feeling of what it means to everybody.”

On the game, Lampard added: “I expect it to be up there with all the derbies I have played in because of the intensity of it, because of the fact the two clubs are fighting towards the top of the league.

“I cannot wait for Monday night, I just hope we can perform to the level to send our fans home happy.”

Lampard sees Forest as a threat not only tonight but also in terms of the season.

Lampard’s team go into the Derby County manager Frank Lampard. Championship clash in the top six with Forest three points behind and just outside the play-off places.

Derby have lost only two of their last 11 League games while defeat at home to Preston North End last weekend was Forest’s first in eight League matches.

Both teams are in good shape. Asked what he has made of Forest this season, Lampard said: “They have had a good season, so far.

“They are organised, Aitor Karanka has a history of being a very good coach and manager, he organises Nottingham Forest manager Aitor Karanka. his teams very well and he knows what it takes to get up in this Championship.

“They invested and went for it in the summer, make no mistake. They brought in some real quality players and we have to be very aware of that. They are a threat, not just on Monday night but in terms of the season.

“Against a team like Nottingham Forest, with the quality they have, and against a team in the Championship and against a team in a big derby, there will be moments when you suffer, moments when the opposition have opportunities.

“So we have to be on our game to attempt to keep a clean sheet for starters.”

Derby have been short of clean sheets this season.

The one recorded in last Saturday’s 1-0 victory over Wigan Athletic was their first in 15 games.

“Of course, another clean sheet will be great for us,” said Lampard.

“Whether it comes or not another thing.

“Our intention solely is to try and win the game.” is