Play-off veteran Ian Holloway is relishing the prospect of a red hot derby night at Selhurst Park.

The Crystal Palace boss guided Blackpool to the Championship play-off final in 2010 and 2012.

But he reckons the buzz of a derby semi-final against Albion will top that.

Holloway said today: “The atmosphere on Friday night is going to be the most electric I have experienced at a home ground of mine in my life.”

The Palace boss admitted he would love his side to be in front after tomorrow’s game.

But he does not see it as essential.

He added: “It would be nice to have a lead after the home game but not vital and over the two games the situation will change so many times.”