Gary Rowett is expecting a tough, tactical game when his Derby County side welcome Aston Villa to Pride Park tomorrow.

The Rams sit one point and one place ahead of Villa in fourth, so tomorrow’s game promises to be a crucial encounter.

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And, as quoted by the Birmingham Mail, the Derby boss admitted it will be a stern test.

“Against a side like Villa, we will have to be at our best. They’ve got the experience to know when to defend and when to attack. I don’t envisage them going gung-ho. I think it will be quite a tactical game.”

The former Birmingham manager also revealed that it will be down to his team to set the tempo as they are at home as he threw down the gauntlet.

“At home, the emphasis is on you to force the pace and it can be difficult. That’s just another challenge we have to overcome. We’re hopeful of pushing forward and putting them under pressure.”

Derby will be looking for a fifth win in six tomorrow whilst Villa approach the game unbeaten in four.

The Verdict

This promises to be a cracking encounter tomorrow and both teams know the important of the fixture given the league table.

Rowett is probably correct in expecting a tight match and Bruce is sure to be happy with a point away to a direct rival.

So, it will be down to the hosts to force the issue but they will have to be wary of the quality that the West Midlands side possess on the break.

Thoughts, Derby and Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.