Cole: "We Know How Important It Is To The Fans"

Ashley Cole is accustomed to local derby fixtures. The full-back has played in North London derbies, as well London derby clashes for both Arsenal and Chelsea.

Wins usually follow Cole, which is a run he hopes extends into his Derby County career.

Out of the nine North London fixtures he featured in for Arsenal, the defender never lost one. He won six and drew the other three.

The trend continued for Chelsea as he got the better of his former club eight times in 14 encounters.

There is a special feeling around derby fixtures, for players and especially the supporters.

The 38-year-old defender has played at both Highbury and White Hart Lane in North London fixtures and explained what made them so special.

“Both stadiums gave a great atmosphere,” Cole told RamsTV. “Since I was 11 or 12 years of age, it got put into my blood that this is one game that you cannot lose. From a young age it was instilled in us not to lose that game.

“I progressed and started playing first-team football and you are playing against these tough teams, big names and superstars and you are just a young kid. You are caught in the headlights at times.

“They were great, fierce games and no-one wanted to lose. Monday will be the same, two cities who aren’t really keen on each other, so it is going to be good atmosphere.”

With an understanding in high-pressured situations following a long and successful playing career, the defender will draw on al of his past experiences ahead of Monday's clash.

The atmosphere will be intense at the City Ground and Cole knows there is a job to do.

“No-one ever likes to lose against rivals,” he said. “People have got to go to work the next day and suffer abuse if they lose.

“We know how important it is to the fans and people of Derby, but ultimately, we know it is important for us as well. We need to start moving up the table so we have to give everything.

“Hopefully if I’m in the squad on Monday we can keep that going.

"It is going to be a difficult game. I’ve heard how tough it is to go there and play and after the last few results it is a game that we need to get everyone back together, fighting together and move up the table. It is a great opportunity for us.”