Pre-Match Thoughts: 'I Can't Wait For The Game' - Mendez-Laing

Derby County forward Nathaniel Mendez-Laing says he 'can't wait' for Tuesday evening's top of the table in Sky Bet League One at Portsmouth (8pm kick-off).

It will be first against second at Fratton Park with Pompey currently holding a five point lead over Derby, but Mendez-Laing says it's just excitement for him rather than nerves going into the match.

Speaking to RamsTV ahead of the trip to the south coast, he reflected on Good Friday's 1-0 home victory over Blackpool and looked ahead to the big game under the lights on the south coast.

On being able to lead the team out on Good Friday as captain...

It was a very proud moment for myself. We all know who our captain is. Conor Hourihane is a great captain and leads by exampl,e but with him being absent on the pitch it was an honour for me to lead the team out and it was nice to get the win as well.

On whether Derby feels like 'his club' now...

It is the most appearances I've had for a club at this point in my career. It's a nice feeling, I feel at home. From all the staff at Moor Farm Training Ground to Pride Park Stadium, it's somewhere I've really settled and enjoyed my time so far.

On his personal statistics this season...

I've got to give credit to my team-mates, first and foremost, and the coaches as well. I get a bit more freedom, whether that's drifting inside or staying out wide. I've played in various positions and I've got that confidence that when I'm in the final third to just go and do what I do. If it doesn't come off then I know that's fine. We work incredibly hard to get the ball back if we lose it and as long as we're doing that I feel comfortable to go out there and try things.

On Ebou Adams' first goal for the club on Friday...

I was buzzing for him because I was one of the lads giving him a bit of stick from the Northampton game when he missed a few chances! He's a top guy and he's lovely to be around on and off the field. I was right behind it and it was a great finish. Nobody deserves it more than him.

On Tuesday evening's clash at Portsmouth...

When I was younger, I might have been a bit nervy - but it's just excitement now. I can't wait for the game, it's going to be a great atmosphere and it looks a nice pitch. First against second is a great fixture to play in and hopefully we can go and get the job done.