Steve McClaren believes that his Derby County side and Championship rivals Burnley are "gatecrashing the party" at the top of the table.
The Rams travel to Turf Moor on Saturday in third position, two points and one place behind Sean Dyche's side.
"We are both gatecrashing the party at the top. There are always one or two that surprise. Leicester have always been there along with QPR and Wigan should be there," McClaren told the Daily Star.
"Is it the battle of the underdogs? Yes, that's absolutely right. They [Burnley] have been top three all season and that is phenomenal. From the squad they have that is some achievement in itself.
"So far they are doing everything right, but going another third of the season will be a big test for them."
Derby are top of the form table, while Burnley are fourth.
