DEAN Marney has been struck by derby fever on his return from suspension.

The midfielder is available for selection after missing the midweek draw at Barnsley through cumulative bookings.

Marney admits his suspension came at the right time ahead of tomorrow’s battle with Blackburn Rovers.

“I would have been gutted to miss this one,” he said. “It’s going to be a special game.

“No-one said anything about it before the Barnsley game. The gaffer very much keeps you on the next game and all our preparation and training is for that, but now we can look forward to tomorrow.”

Having been one of the Clarets most consistent performers this season, Marney is expected the reclaim his place in midfield.

And the 28-year-old admits he can’t wait to sample the atmosphere.

“I played in the Norwich v Ipswich derby when I was at Carrow Road – that was quite a big one, but I think this is going to take some beating,” he said.

“The atmosphere for the Bolton game at the start of the season was great. If this is bigger then it will be brilliant.”