Chelsea's desire to stop Tottenham winning the title has given Spurs added motivation ahead of Monday's clash between the two sides, according to Mauricio Pochettino.
The Blues are the reigning champions but have little left to play for during the run-in, given that they are nine points adrift of the top six.
Spurs have not given up hope of lifting the Premier League title for the first time in their history but need Leicester to slip up if they are to pip the Foxes at the post.
Willian, Eden Hazard and Cesc Fabregas have all declared that Chelsea want to see Leicester finish above their London rivals and Pochettino is adamant such comments will serve as inspiration for his own players at Stamford Bridge.
"The derby is always a big motivation. There's been a lot of speech from them - the team doesn't want us to win the league - but this is another motivation for us to try to win the game.
"We will expect a very tough game but we are ready to fight. Our objective is to go and try to win the three points," he told the club's official website.
Chelsea's form has dipped dramatically this season but Pochettino remains wary of the threat that Guus Hiddink's side can pose in a one-off encounter.
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"This season they haven't been consistent like the season before and they're in a position in the middle of the table.
"But they are a very good team and always in one game they can play well.
"We all love [derby games]. Our team feels the same. They are fighters and they like to compete," he added.
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