Xabi Alonso has said he is looking forward to the 'special' experience of a London Derby between Chelsea and Tottenham.
Chelsea welcome their fierce rivals to Stamford Bridge in thePremier League this evening. Alonso's side are searching for a third consecutive Premier League win, and are aiming to continue a fine recent record in this fixture.
Chelsea have won their last six meetings with Spurs in all competitions, and have lost just one league game against their London neighbours at Stamford Bridge in 34 meetings.
Asked how he feels ahead of the game, Alonso expressed his excitement but warned Chelsea must keep their cool.
Chelsea vs Tottenham: Alonso hails “special” London Derby and urges Blues to play with “heart and intelligence”
"Every derby is special, you feel the energy and excitement from the stands. We need to use that energy on the pitch because we need to connect well," he said at hispre-match press conference.
"We need to have good emotional control as well because there is a lot of passion and commitment from both sides. Playing football with heart is what we want."
Despite Chelsea's recent dominance in the fixture, Alonso said past results count for little. He said the Blues must show 'heart' and 'intelligence' to take the points.
"I knew about it [six-game winning run] but tomorrow is another game. We need to prove again that we can continue that run and knowing it is a special game so we need to play with heart, head and intelligence."