Hull City manager Steve Bruce has told his players to match the performance levels set against Middlesbrough in their last home outing if they are to overcome fellow big boys Derby County.

The Tigers lead the way in the Championship ahead of their huge showdown with fourth-placed Derby on Friday night, with their form on Humberside proving key since relegation last time out.

Bruce was delighted by the way his team brushed aside Boro at the KC Stadium prior to the international break, claiming that a similar performance will be needed against another in-form side this evening.

Speaking to City's official website, the 54-year-old said: "There was a lot of doom and gloom amongst the supporters when we got relegated, of course there was. I have to say to each and every one of them that has followed the club through thick and thin, I'm delighted for them that their team has responded after a difficult year.

"We didn't win enough to make sure we stayed in the Premier League, and so the one thing the supporters want then is a response. They want to be proud of their team.

"We've got an excellent record at the KC this season and I think the fans are enjoying watching us play. Certainly the performance against Middlesbrough in our last home game was a fantastic one and if we're going to get anything against Derby, we have to hit those heights again."

Hull, without a defeat in any of their last 11 league outings, face Bolton Wanderers, Reading and Burnley in their next three home games after tonight.