Johnny Hunt says he is happy to guide Chester FC’s younger players through an intense derby week.

The former Wrexham left-back has experience of playing on both sides of the divide and knows the unique pressures it brings.

Jon McCarthy’s Blues cross the border to the Racecourse Ground to face their bitter rivals on Saturday (12.15pm).

Hunt said: “Everyone knows it’s a derby.

“We know we are going to have to put in a lot of commitment and passion into the game.

“I’ve played in plenty of games like this now.

“As it leads up to the match I’ll try to help out anyone including the younger lads if it helps the team, but they have got their heads on and know what it’s about.”

Jon McCarthy talks to Johnny Hunt at Gateshead

Just a point separates the two clubs in the National League table, with Wrexham lying 14th and Chester just behind in 15th.

A victory could see either side leap up into the top half as well as bag the bragging rights.

The Blues have momentum after securing back-to-back wins over Guiseley and Braintree Town.

Meanwhile Gary Mills saw his side jeered off following their 2-0 loss away at Woking last Saturday.

It has been more than 300 minutes since the Blues last conceded a goal and Hunt said positive results have helped ease derby tensions.

He has been a constant in a back four he says is gaining confidence.

The 26-year-old said: “There’s a good feeling among the lads at the moment and we are looking forward to it.

“It definitely takes a bit of the pressure off when you have had a couple of good results in the build up.

“We have kept clean sheets and the lads have been working hard in training, so we are confident and want to take three points.

“At the back I’m happy with my own form and as each game goes by the more togetherness we get as a defence.”

Johnny Hunt made over 100 appearances for Wrexham FC
Johnny Hunt made over 100 appearances for Wrexham FC

Hunt is a product of Wrexham’s academy and knows all about the derby.

He made his Dragons debut in 2010 and went on to make more than 100 appearances.

Signed by Chester in 2015 after a stint at Cambridge United, he featured in both clashes against Wrexham last season.

But the prospect of again returning to the Racecourse Ground wearing a blue and white striped shirt does not phase the full back.

He said: “That’s just football.

“You are bound to get a bit of stick from the fans. You get it wherever you go whether it’s Wrexham or Woking.

“I had a good time at Wrexham, but I’m a Chester player now and that’s what matters.”

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