DARREN Moore insists there is no need to stoke the fire of Albion’s fanbase ahead of the clash with Aston Villa.
The Baggies host the Villans in the Midlands’ oldest derby when the two Football League founding members go toe-to-toe for the 168th time on Friday night - some 133 years after their first encounter.
And our Handsworth-born gaffer, who has experience of the fixture as a player, knows The Hawthorns will be a cauldron of noise come kick-off.
“I don’t have to say much in terms of the fans and them getting right behind the team in full voice. I know that the fans can’t wait for Friday to come.
“It means a lot because we’re all local, we love this club, it’s our club, it has unity in it. We’re proud and we’re on our patch.
“It means a lot to everyone connected to the club, and the two teams haven’t come together for a couple of seasons, so it’s extra special.
“It’s one we’re all looking forward to, and I’m looking forward to The Hawthorns being a white hot atmosphere.
“There’s a rivalry that goes back through many seasons and generations of families and that all comes together on Friday night.”
He added: “There’s a tinge more excitement around this game than normal because of where the two teams are in the league and the recent form both sides have been showing.
“It’s a pulsating local derby and it’s a game where you’ll see a high level of commitment, desire, determination and a willingness, not just on the football pitch, but in the stands as well.
“The supporters will be in full voice cheering the team on. I’m hearing it’s going to be a sell-out crowd so credit to all the supporters - they’ll come there in full voice and get behind the boys.”
