Wolves manager Mick McCarthy says he is not worried about the positive effect a new manager may have on Aston Villa ahead of tomorrow’s derby (2.05pm).

The match will be Gerard Houllier’s first Barclays Premier League game in charge, but McCarthy thinks that will not affect the task ahead of his team.

He said: “They are coming to our place on Sunday and we’re no fools. I’ve got a good side here.

“They might all be flying, they might all not be quite sure what’s expected of them. I don’t know, but I’ll be able to tell after about five minutes.”

Villa finished sixth during each of their last three seasons, but the Wolves boss added he does not care whether Houllier’s team can finally break into the Champions League places.

“I don’t give tuppence whether they finish in the top four,” he said. “Gerard’s a very good manager, that’s been proven. He’s a good guy as well.

“It’s been difficult for them, with Martin (O’Neill) leaving. They’ve got good players, let’s not overlook that.

“Martin’s left a fantastic squad of players.

“Heskey, Carew, Young, Petrov, Downing. They’re not struggling, are they? They won’t get any sympathy from me. There’s plenty of talent there.”

McCarthy has targeted his team’s home form as an area for improvement this season.

Despite finishing 15th last term, Wolves’ home record was the second worst in the Premier League.

In contrast, their away form was the 11th best in the division.

McCarthy said: “Our home supporters and season ticket holders that come and pay good money want to watch us win at home.”

Villa will be without key central defender Richard Dunne, who is still out with a knee injury but striker Gabriel Agbonlahor is winning his fitness battle.

McCarthy is well aware of Dunne’s ability, having managed him at international level, but refuses to see the injury as a bonus for his side.

“I don’t ever see it as a boost when other players are missing,” he said.

“If they are, and if it helps us then great. They’ve still got (James) Collins and (Carlos) Cuellar.”