Centre-back Bolland joined the Reds during the January transfer window, in a deal that runs until the end of the season, after being told he was surplus to requirements at arch rivals Chester.

The 31-year-old spent six years – covering two spells – at The Deva, only separated by a brief stint with Peterborough, and faced Wrexham in derby clashes during his time with the Blues.

And having seen the passion shown by the travelling Wrexham fans in past encounters, Bolland can't wait to line up for the Reds in Sunday's noon showdown.

"I've played in derbies before and Wrexham always bring a lot of fans with them, and have been very loud," said Bolland today.

"The Deva is a small ground and when it is packed, it is a good atmosphere. Hopefully the lads will rise to the occasion.

"When I was at Chester, they were quite intimidating. In an LDV Vans Trophy match, they kept getting behind Wrexham and inspired them to win, and the victory for Wrexham in last season's league match was emphatic.

"When we were losing 2-0, the Wrexham fans just kept singing.

"It will be good to be on the other side and experience those fans behind me, and hopefully Wrexham get the same result."

Bolland helped Chester win promotion back to the Football League in 2004 and also captained the Blues for whom he made 165 league appearances.

Although he was limited to just two starts this term before being frozen out by manager then Bobby Williamson, Bolland has no axe to grind with Chester.

But Bolland is gunning for victory to help Wrexham in their bid to reach League Two safety.

"I've got nothing against the club because I did well for Chester and helped them get back into the Football League as champions of the Conference which was a great season," said Bolland.
"But after that managers came and went, and we never really had a settled side.

"I had six good years at Chester but it was time to move on. A new manager came in and he had his own ideas.

"Wrexham are my club now and in football you can't look back at any age.
"We have to win games, that is what we are going out to do, and hopefully I can look forward to a big future with Wrexham."

Due to suspension or injury, Bolland has never faced Chester at the Deva Stadium for any other club during his career.

Uncertain of the reception he will receive from Blues fans, Bolland is just focussed on the job in hand, and said he was really looking forward to the game: "I've never actually played for another team at Chester's ground before so it will be strange

"I was popular with the fans but you never know what they will be like on Sunday. I would like a good reception, but even if it is a bad one it will inspire me either way. Once it kicks off you just get on what the job, and we know what we've got to do."

Rock bottom Wrexham go into the derby six points adrift of safety but with games in hand on the four sides above them.

With nearly a third of the season remaining, Bolland, who has made eight league appearances since moving across the border, said Wrexham should have enough talent in their squad to avoid relegation.

"They are all cliches but you do have to take it a game at a time," said Bolland.

"People said Mansfield was a must-win game last Saturday and we got a point, but that match is gone now.

"There are 14 games to go and we just have to get as many points as possible.

"With the squad we have, we should pick up more than enough points."
Chester, who lost 1-0 at Darlington last night, are 17th in the table and not out of trouble yet.

Having played three more games than Wrexham, Chester have a 14 point advantage over the Reds and Bolland admitted his former club have still got work to do in their bid to ensure safety.

"Chester have had mixed fortunes this the season and the manager has gone, though they might have a new one in place for Sunday," added Bolland.

"They are not out of trouble yet and there are still a lot of points to pick up so you have to be on your toes at all times.

"It will go down to the last few matches. We just have to make sure that by the last few matches, we are still in the Football League. That is all that matters."