Frank Lampard claimed the 'Spygate' scandal that heightened tensions between Leeds United and Derby County earlier in the season is not on his mind ahead of the Championship play-off semi-final between the two clubs.

Marcelo Bielsa's admission that he sent spies to Derby's training ground ahead of Leeds' 2-0 victory over the Rams at Elland Road in January left Lampard "very surprised" and he condemned the former Argentina coach's actions, saying: "I don't think it's right".

Derby's 3-1 victory over West Brom on the final day of the league campaign set up a two-legged clash to determine who will face Aston Villa or the Baggies at Wembley for a place in the Premier League.

But Lampard deflected questions about whether the saga would have any bearing on the tie, telling the Guardian: "I want to take myself out of that one now.

"I don't care about the history. I don't care about the talk of spies, I actually care about the fact they beat us well over two games and have been a really strong team this season.

"I'll block all of that out and might have to fend off a few questions about it, but the important thing is focusing on Leeds as a team and trying to get a result."

Derby lost both of their Championship games against Leeds this season, succumbing to a 4-1 thrashing at Pride Park in August before January's defeat away from home.

Leeds head into Saturday's first leg without a win in four matches, however, while hosts Derby are unbeaten in six.