Saturday 7 October 2017 15:01, UK
Wales midfielder Joe Ledley has warned his team-mates not to get caught up in the emotion of the occasion when they face the Republic of Ireland in their final World Cup European Qualifier on Monday.
Both sides can still qualify automatically for next year's finals in Russia, although they are relying on Group D leaders Serbia slipping up at home to second-bottom Georgia.
Wales are in second place going into the intriguing clash at the Cardiff City Stadium, a point above Martin O'Neill's side, after they beat Georgia 1-0 in Tbilisi on Friday and Ireland won 2-0 at home to Moldova.
The opening encounter between the sides at the Aviva Stadium in March was a feisty affair that saw Ireland captain Seamus Coleman ruled out for the remainder of the qualifying campaign after he suffered a broken leg following a robust challenge from Wales defender Neil Taylor, who was sent off for the tackle.
But despite the pressure they will face, Ledley is keen for Wales to focus purely on Monday's match, live on Sky Sports.
"Obviously we know it is a derby, but we must not get involved in anything," Ledley said.
"We need to be clever and we have a lot of experience, so it is down for us.
"Monday will be a battle and they will fight hard, it is always the same in these games. But it will be a great occasion, and hopefully we can do it with one last push."
Wales head into the final qualifier looking to secure a fourth consecutive victory for the first time in 36 years, although a draw would see them over the line.
"Three wins and three clean sheets is very positive," added Ledley.
"All that is all out of the window on Monday, but I do feel this is the strongest squad we have had.
"We see the youngsters coming through in training and it is only a matter of time before they get a chance."
Watch Wales v Republic of Ireland on Monday night. Coverage begins on Sky Sports Main Event and Sky Sports Football at 7pm.
