Hearts man Karipidis recalls fear of derby loss in Greece

However, when previously playing for PAOK Salonika in his homeland, Karipidis admits fans were unforgiving if they fell to defeat in the grudge matches against Olympiakos, Panathinaikos and AEK Athens.

He said: "In Greece, we played big derby games against Olympiakos, Panathinaikos, AEK Athens and Heracles. There are a lot of big rivalries in Greek football.

"Being honest, I prefer to play in this type of game because you must be so strong to deal with the fans. Of course, there is more pressure but I love the pressure of a big game.

"It is very different in Greece, even though the atmosphere at the games is the same. In Greece, if you lose, it's a real problem.

"The fans get very angry and, sometimes, they get crazy – too crazy. You don't want to leave your house for days because they are so mad. I prefer it here because it is more relaxed.

"Yes, it is a big game. But in Greece we don't have any balance. If you win, you are king; if you lose, you are nothing."

Karipidis, who has performed well after being moved from defence to a holding midfield role this season, added: "Here, you know that the fans will be very unhappy if we lose.

"But you can still talk to them in the street and they will be reasonable. Yes, they want us to win, we understand that. But, if they are really angry, the best thing is just to say sorry."