Derby boss calls Oxford United ‘biggest game of season’

The Rams are looking to secure a play-off spot in the Championship this season and are currently eighth, five points away from sixth-placed Hull City after losing to Southampton last time out.

Oxford travel to Pride Park looking for crucial points which would boost their hopes of survival with just four games of the season remaining having beaten Watford last weekend.

Oxford United celebrate Myles Peart-Harris’ goal against Watford (Image: Jason Dawson)

Currently 22nd and two points from safety, the U’s need to avoid defeat in the East Midlands against Eustace’s Derby who are feeling the pressure.

“There’s some pressure,” the 46-year-old told Rams TV.

“We always take each game as it comes. We prepare properly for every game that we play in the Championship – and this won’t be any different.

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Derby County manager John Eustace celebrates (Image: Mike Egerton/PA Wire)

“We’ve got obviously our aims where we want to get to – and Saturday’s game is the biggest game of the season. It’s a game that we’re looking forward to.

“It’s a difficult Championship game, and we will have to bring a fight and desire to it.”

The Rams’ form has fluctuated in recent weeks as they have faced teams at both the top and bottom of the table.

Eustace also confirmed that EFL Championship Young Player of the Season nominee Bobby Clark will miss the U’s clash with an injury that is set to see him miss the rest of the regular season.