Pre-Match Thoughts: 'We've Got To Stay Focused And Do What We've Done All Year' - Smith

Derby County midfielder Korey Smith says it's important that the squad 'stay focused and do what we've done all year' ahead of the final game of the regular 2023/24 Sky Bet League One season on Saturday.

The Rams require a single point against Carlisle United at Pride Park Stadium to ensure a return to the Sky Bet Championship at just the second attempt via the automatic route (12:30pm kick-off).

Speaking to RamsTV ahead of the fixture, Smith spoke about life at Moor Farm this week and previewed Saturday's test against the Cumbrians.

On whether this week has felt like a normal one...

We've tried to make it as normal as possible but, obviously, in the back of your mind you know you've got that massive opportunity. When you've worked so hard all season to put yourself in this position, you're going to be a bit more excited or anxious, whatever that may be, because it comes down to this game.

On how the players don't let the feelings take over...

To be fair. we've got a lot of experienced players and it's just about doing the same things that we've been doing and staying consistent. The boys have trained really well and it's the same as we've always done in terms of preparing; looking at the opposition, their strong points and weak points and how we can exploit them. We've got to stay focused and do what we've done all year and when it comes to Saturday. Whatever is meant to be, will be.

On not going too over the top with celebrations after the Cambridge victory last week...

We realised the job wasn't done because of the other scores. We didn't want to go too over the top because, at the end of the day, we haven't done anything yet.

On being part of a record-breaking side to claim 13 away wins and register the most points in a season...

They are special things to be a part of. To be part of a team that has set a record at such an amazing club like this is something to be proud of. For the away support too, they have been massive. I have never seen away fans like it, to be honest. Every stadium we've been to has been packed. The energy and the way they get behind us is amazing. In the second half at Cambridge, we had to dig in to be fair and they understood that and that's how you stay up at the top of the league in this league. You've got to be able to do both sides. The points tally, hopefully, we can add to that on Saturday and get above 90. The gaffer has always been on at us about the average of two points per game. The goal is to do that now and set another record.

On getting the result they want...

Every game is different, every occasion is different. We've just got to focus on each day, training and what we always do and make sure we are best prepared to go into the game full of confidence. We believe in ourselves, we believe we can win, but we are aware of what Carlisle can do because they've beaten some top teams away from home this year. We have full respect for them.