3/1 To Win
Phillip Cocu is more than accustomed to big game situations as he prepares for his first East Midlands Derby clash against Nottingham Forest as Derby County's manager.
As a player, Cocu played in some of the world’s biggest fixtures in front of huge crowds.
El Classico, World Cups, European Championships, the Rams boss has played in them all.
And as a manager, he has experienced similar situations. He was in the dugout as PSV Eindhoven lifted three major titles so he knows the importance of winning big fixtures.
He takes his Derby side to the City Ground to face Nottingham Forest on Tuesday night in the second Round of the Carabao Cup (7:45pm kick-off) and he is looking forward to the test - and has his eyes firmly fixed on winning the game.
“Everyone told me on the first day I came in about the rivalry, so I am looking forward to it,” he told RamsTV.
“It is really good to play against Forest and I believe
it will be a great cup game. We have to make sure we win the game to go home.
“As players you should look forward to them too. To play in intense games and the fans are more intense than usual, is one of the reasons you play football to enjoy that.
“No hesitation, no doubts; just enjoy and play a good game. There is always an important balance to keep in mind in any game to make sure you keep all your players on the pitch.
“You have to show the right aggressiveness, but don’t cross the line because if you go down with one player it will be extremely difficult to win. It is something for the players to think about.”
