Derby County Head Coach Paul Warne says his team have to beware of a 'wounded animal' in Stevenage when they visit Pride Park Stadium on Saturday (3pm kick-off).
Stevenage have picked up one point from their last three matches, a run that has seen them drop out of the top six for the first time this year, but Warne knows just how eager last season's League Two runners-up will be to respond.
Speaking to RamsTV on Thursday, the Head Coach previewed Saturday's meeting with Steve Evans' side.
On Ebou Adams' form since arriving...
He's buzzing to be playing. He's a great kid and has been brilliant on and off the pitch. It's not easy when you join a new club to hit the ground running, but it feels like he's been here forever. I'm really pleased for him.
On how much he looks for personality in his players...
First and foremost, they have got to be able to play - but there are loads of players that can play! They have to have the proper personality, on and off the pitch, and have to understand that football is a team sport not an individual sport. You only see people's real character in difficulties, not in great times. When you're winning every week, you think everyone is great but when they've been pulled out of the team or you drop them, you see who they really are.
On Stevenage...
Stevenage have been outstanding all season and have done really well away from home as well. They are desperate for success, as we all are but they are a little bit of a wounded animal as well. I know in their last three games the results haven't gone the way they wanted, although it's only been one goal here or there. They've got really good footballing midfielders who can play and are a real goal threat. I know how tough it will be and they'll relish the chance of coming here and trying to get themselves back to winning ways. It will be a completely different game to the one at Exeter on Tuesday, but one we'll have to meet head on.
On whether Derby plan differently for this game...
We plan differently for every game. We always respect the opposition and what strengths we think they'll bring. You have to be aware of what the opposition brings and what their dangers are - you have to nullify them if you want any control in the game. We try and set up in a way that gives us the best chance to win.
On making Pride Park a fortress between now and the end of the season...
To have success, you have to be good at home and away. Everyone that turns up on Saturday needs to play their part. If the team are successful, everyone has played a part. That's what makes football so collective. Hopefully we can put a level of performance on that pleases people, makes them vocal and makes it feel amazing for the players. When people are cheering and applauding you, you just feel bulletproof. Hopefully everyone that turns up can really enjoy it because the lads have been brilliant.
