Derby manager Gary Rowett keen to show appreciation to Birmingham fans on his return to St Andrew’s

Gary Rowett has revealed his plans to thank Birmingham fans on his return to St Andrew’s this weekend as Derby manager.

The Rams boss returns to his former club for the first time since his controversial sacking back in December - where he left the club just outside of the playoff spots.

Gianfranco Zola has since taken over from Rowett, leading the Blues to slump down the Championship table and flirt with relegation with only six games remaining.

But despite the nature of his dismissal, Rowett insists his affection for the Birmingham support remains the same ahead of his return.

“People have said: oh you must be really looking forward to it,” Rowett told talkSPORT host Jim White.

“I think I’m looking forward to thanking the fans and [to] show my appreciation. First and foremost, I’ll clap the Derby fans because I’m the Derby County manager.

“I didn’t really get a chance to thank that [Birmingham] fan base, who were so good to me over a two-year period.

“The reality of the situation is we’re on a good run and after that it will be about winning the game. We have to put all that emotion to one side and really try to focus.

“It would be easy to let the game drift away in terms of - it’s great being back - but ultimately it’s three points and that’s what we’re there to pick up.”

Rowett has enjoyed a productive return to management since taking over from Steve McClaren at Pride Park last month.

The 43-year-old remains unbeaten and has picked up seven points from a possible nine for the playoff hopefuls.