Dundee United manager Robbie Neilson does not think the last demolition derby will be a factor when the city sides meet again.
The Tangerines ran riot at Tannadice on August 30 and ran out 6-2 against Dundee – only the second time in the history of the fixture that they have scored half-a-dozen goals against their rivals.
Some supporters may be dreaming of a repeat or even better from their team this Friday but Neilson is rather more realistic.
He has paid close attention to the form of James McPake, which has seen them match his own team three consecutive Championship victories.
Therefore, Neilson doubts what happened back then will have an impact on this match.
The United boss said: “I don’t think the game at Tannadice will have any reflection at all on this week’s derby.
“The 6-2 game is gone now and it is what we do on Friday that matters.
“Dundee are improving and I think that was always going to happen because it’s around now that you see teams emerging.
“Clubs make signings in the summer and it takes time for it to come together.
“I always think that when you head into the second round of fixtures you see who is capable of what.
“Dundee brought in quality players and they are becoming a team now. They are getting to know each other better.
“Obviously, we had a very good win in the derby at Tannadice a few months ago but it will be even tougher down there on Friday.”
Neilson believes the atmosphere will be enhanced by the fact that both clubs are on impressive winning runs.
Dundee have seen off Ayr United, Alloa and Morton, while United have beaten Dunfermline, Partick Thistle and Inverness Caley Thistle.
Neilson said: “Saturday up at Inverness was an important win for us but Dundee are in good form too.
“Both teams are going into the game in good shape.
“We are just focused on going there to win three points.
“It is far too early in the season to be looking at tables and gaps between teams.
“So much can change so quickly so the best approach is to just focus on it week by week and see where that takes you.”
Neilson revealed that the Tangerines are just doing their normal preparations for a game despite this being one of the biggest of the season.
He said: “We need to keep things normal even though it is a derby week.
“I think the game being on Friday helps with that.
“I always like to just prepare normally, stick to the routine and just keep things the way they always are.
“Of course, everyone knows the importance of derby matches and that you are expected to win them.
“That is the same for both sides and Dundee will be under pressure from their supporters to win this week as much as we are.”
