Derby County boss praises his players ahead of clash with "outstanding" Stevenage

Derby County prepare to face playoff chasing Stevenage who have been the surprise package in League One this season.

They sit in seventh whereas the Rams are second just six points away from first placed Portsmouth.

Paul Warne will be delighted after his side came away with a 3-0 win on Tuesday night against Exeter City.

But this week Stevenage are likely to provide a tougher test. They won 3-1 in the reverse fixture, a game that the Rams will need to improve from a lot.

Ahead of the game, Paul Warne was quick to praise his opposition. Speaking to Rams TV, he said: "Stevenage have been outstanding all season and have done really well away from home as well.

"They are desperate for success, 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."

Derby County's away from has been much better than at home, not that their home form has been bad however. They have won two from three at home, but will be needing to make it a fortress if they are to finish in the top two.

Paul Warne said that his players will be boosted from support by the Pride Park faithful, he added: "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."

Derby County vs Stevenage kicks off at 3pm on Saturday 17 February.