Huddersfield Town v Leeds United: Points take priority over local bragging rights

He came through the Elland Road ranks at a time when United were regularly locking horns with the likes of Barnsley, Bradford, Huddersfield, Hull, Middlesbrough and Sheffield United in the Second Division.

It means Grayson, 40, appreciates how regular derby combat can bring an extra dimension to a season and is why he hopes both clubs can swell the already large contingent of clubs from the Broad Acres in next season's Championship. He said: "A Championship game between Leeds and Huddersfield would be a great fixture to be involved in. Both set of supporters are very passionate and the area needs as many Championship teams as possible.

"If there are two or three more in there over the next few years then happy days. But, ultimately, it is more about Leeds going up before Huddersfield."

On today's game, the United manager added: "Geographically, it is a big game because we are so close to each other and everyone will want the bragging rights. But, more importantly, Huddersfield are behind us in the league and need to pick up points to claw back that difference.

"It is a big game. The players know they have to play with their heads as well as their hearts. They need to be focused more on the game than the occasion."

Huddersfield go into today's derby in much better form than their neighbours from down the A62 but Grayson insists the manner of Tuesday's win at home to Oldham has boosted confidence.

The Leeds manager, who will complete a deal to snap up Paul Dickov on Monday, said: "Huddersfield are on a good run and their confidence will be high, but we never looked like losing the game against Oldham.

"The performance reminded me of earlier in the season. There was a spark about us again and, hopefully, that can be a catalyst for us now.

"I wouldn't swap any of my players for Huddersfield's and I am sure Lee Clark wouldn't swap any of his for mine. It will be a close game between two teams going head-to-head.

"It was a good game at Elland Road that could have gone either way. We are going there to win."