Steven Gerrard admits he wishes he was preparing to play in the Old Firm derby, rather than readying Rangers for a date with arch-rivals Celtic.
The Liverpool legend has made a positive impression in a first managerial post at Ibrox.
He is yet to suffer defeat across Scottish Premiership and Europa League outings, with the new-look Gers showing signs of improvement under a new coaching regime.
They are, however, set to face their biggest test of the season to date when they make the short trip across Glasgow to Parkhead on Sunday.
Gerrard is determined to enjoy his first taste of the historic rivalry, even if he is no longer able to savour a passionate atmosphere from the middle of the field.
The ex-England captain told reporters: "It's a big game on Sunday against a tough team so we have to recover and prepare well. We are going there confident.
"We have players in the squad with experience playing in front of a big crowd but we are aware of the challenge of playing away from home.
"This is a big game for me of course, I can't compare it to playing but I wish I was on Sunday. These are the games you want to be part of.
"We know Celtic will come out the blocks quick to try and get the crowd going. We have to be ready from the first whistle."
While embracing the domestic battles to come with Rangers, Gerrard is also looking forward to extending a continental adventure.
The Gers have been placed alongside Villarreal, Rapid Vienne and Spartak Moscow in the Europa League group stage, with that draw holding no fear for a man who savoured UEFA Cup and Champions League glory during his playing days.
Gerrard added: "I'm excited by the draw, a lot of big names and a great reward for the hard work of the players.
"We feel like we are building something special here, these are the sort of games we want to be a part of and it will be fantastic for the supporters and the squad."
