Cotterill was in charge of Burnley for three years

Former Burnley boss Steve Cotterill believes the anticipation encountered in the build-up to derby clashes with local rivals Blackburn is special.

The two sides will meet for the first time in the top flight on Sunday since 1966, although Cotterill remembers well the FA Cup meetings in 2005.

"I was shocked at first just how big it was," he told BBC Radio Lancashire.

"Everybody in Burnley always talked about the games, so when it came around I was totally aware of its importance."

A goalless draw at Turf Moor in the fifth round led to a replay, with Blackburn eventually running out 2-1 winners.

Despite the defeat, Cotterill believes his side earned widespread credit for their performance.

Burnley are still new in this league so I think it'll be a few more years before they can be called equal Former Burnley boss Steve Cotterill

"I remember the game at Ewood more than the match at Turf Moor to be honest," he said.

"I thought we were excellent on the night and were certainly worth extra-time.

"The fans we had behind the goal were special, and one thing is for sure they will be for this game too."

Burnley go into Sunday's game five points clear of their east Lancashire rivals in the Premier League table.

But when the two sides last met in March 2005, Burnley were 13th in the Championship, while Blackburn were 16th in the top flight.

"It's fantastic for the club now they're in the Premier League," said Cotterill.

"But obviously Burnley are still new in this league so I think it'll be a few more years before they can be called equal.

"The sides will come closer together now than in the past so I would anticipate it being a very good game and a fantastic atmosphere."

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