Kevin Phillips insists Albion will have no problem handling the pressure of being made favourites for the play-off final by Billy Davies.

The Derby boss wasted no time in claiming the ground of the underdog for the Wembley showdown after watching Albion beat Wolves – despite his Rams side finishing eight points clear of the Baggies in the table.

But Phillips says Tony Mowbray’s men are now used to the expectation, having worn the tags of ‘Championship favourites’ and  ‘best squad in the division’ since before a ball was kicked last August.

“If Billy Davies wants to say they’re underdogs then that’s fine, let him say it,” said Phillips.

“Mick McCarthy was harping on about that as well before the semi-final, saying Wolves were the underdogs.

“But we will go into the game confident we can win but knowing it will be a tough match.

“We’ve played Derby twice this year and although we lost at Pride Park I didn’t think we deserved to lose the game.

“It will be a totally different ball game at Wembley.”

Phillips will head to Wembley on a hot streak of six goals in three games, including three of Albion’s four goals in their semi-final win over Wolves.

And after the emotion of Wednesday night, and because of his form, the 33-year-old wishes the final was this weekend.

“I didn’t get any sleep whatsoever after the game on Wednesday because of adrenalin,” said Phillips.

“I can’t normally sleep after a midweek match and with the occasion and how big it was made it even more difficult. 

“I tried to sleep but it just wasn’t happening, even after a couple of beers.

“I wish it was this weekend because having to wait 10 days now is cruel!”