Irvine expects a super-charged atmosphere for one of the biggest derby clashes in recent history.

But today he called on both sets of fans in a 21,000 audience not to push the rivalry too far.

"I really don't expect there to be any nonsense," he told the Evening Post.

"I'm sure the supporters will get behind their teams, but not go any further.

"I want our supporters to really get behind us and make Deepdale an intimidating place for Blackpool to play in – but obviously within the right spirit.

"We have seen a couple of examples lately of crowds behaving badly.

"We don't want any of that.

"I don't see why we can't have a red-hot, electric atmosphere full of passion and desire. But I don't see why it has to spill over into trouble.

"I'm sure there won't be any."

Irvine is calling on the home fans to pump up the volume and keep Preston's play-off dream alive.

The lunchtime showdown (1pm) could have a huge bearing on how both clubs finish the season, and Irvine believes this is the moment for Deepdale's demanding home audience to stand up and be counted.

"The crowd can have a big influence on how this game goes," said Irvine as he prepared to send his troops into battle for a must-win match if Preston are to have any realistic chance of making the end-of-season knockout.

Irvine has only one injury worry for the big match, with full-back Callum Davidson still having difficulties shaking off a hamstring problem which has kept him sidelined for more than a month.

The Scotland international did not train again yesterday, although Irvine was hoping he would resume this morning and be ready for the squad on Saturday.

"We aren't giving up on Callum, he's got a chance," he said.

Full story in Friday's Evening Post