Josh Daniels is relishing his first taste of Big Two action as Glentoran travel across Belfast to face old rivals Linfield at the Clearer Twist National Stadium on Saturday evening (Kick-off 6pm).

Daniels was a high-profile Deadline Day arrival at the BetMcLean Oval joining from The New Saints.

The 29-year-old has quickly settled into life in east Belfast but admitted the game against the Blues was one he has had on his radar since joining.

Josh Daniels said: “Yeah derby games always have an extra edge to them but the Big Two game is extra special.

“There has been so much rivalry between the clubs down the years every game carries that bit more weight.

“It’s the one that every player and fan wants to win as you want to have the bragging rights over your rivals.

“I know just how important this game is even though this will be my first experience of playing in it.

“When I joined I found out we would be playing them in a couple of weeks so that was definitely something to look forward to.

“I can’t wait, it’s going to be a great atmosphere with a big crowd and that’s what you want to be involved in as players.

“However we can’t afford to get caught up the occasion too much as that can affect your game.

“We have to focus on the task in hand and make sure that we work hard and produce a performance which is good enough to get the points.

“We know it won’t be easy as they are on a decent run of form and they are at home too, but we are also on a good run and confidence is high in the camp.

“We want to keep our unbeaten run going and we will be doing all we can to make that happen.”

Daniels is feeling right at home at the BetMcLean Oval following his return to the Irish League.

The former Glenavon man was started the last three games as the Glens extended their recent unbeaten run.

Daniels has been impressed with the standards both in the Irish Premiership and under the current regime at Glentoran.

Daniels said: “It’s six years since I played in the Irish League and a lot has changed during that time.

“Obviously there are now a number of teams who operate under a full-time model, and that has helped the overall quality of the league in my opinion.

“Teams have looked further afield to strengthen their squad with the offer of full-time football and the potential of playing in Europe a big carrot for players.

“The part-time teams also seem to have benefited too by picking up players who maybe are unable to turn full-time, so that has helped strengthen the other sides as well.

“The Irish League has always been very competitive, but even more so now. I kept an eye on results when I was playing across the water and every team makes it so difficult for you.

“In my opinion that’s good because you know that you have to be on it every week if you are going to be successful.

“Those are the standards that Decky and his staff have been driving here since they arrived according to the rest of the boys.

“We have a very talented squad here but we all know it’s about putting a shift in every week too. If you don’t do that you could end up with egg on your face.

“I knew Glentoran was a massive club but I don’t think you really appreciate the scale of it and the history until you join.

“Just because you have been successful in the past though it doesn’t mean you are going to be again.

“That only comes from everyone buying into the common goal and working hard to achieve it.

“When I first spoke to Decky about signing I could see the desire and hunger he has to make this club successful again and challenge for honours.

“Every player here has bought into that and has the drive to go on and do it.”

Last Saturday’s comeback win over Ballymena United helped Glentoran gain a little ground on league leaders Larne.

With 12 games left to play in the Irish Premiership Daniels knows the Glens need to pick up as many wins as possible to keep the pressure on the teams around them.

Daniels added: “It turned out to be a decent afternoon for us in the end last Saturday as we fought back to beat Ballymena.

“But we know it will only count for something if we can back it up again this week and the following weeks.

“When the teams around you slip up you have to take advantage as you don’t know how many more opportunities you will get.

“We have 36 points left to play for and will be trying to win as many of them as possible between now and the end of the season.

“We know it won’t be easy as there are a lot of tough games to come over the next few weeks, but there is a real determination in the squad to go out and push ourselves.

“The manager and the coaching staff have given us a clear direction of what they expect from us and we as players are determined to deliver it.

“We want to be able to achieve something great together at this club and give the fans plenty to celebrate.

“The atmosphere around the place is one of excitement but also determination as we are prepared to put the work in to achieve our goals.

“Every game now is massive and we all have to pull together along with the fans to make sure we finish the season on a high.”

For Glentoran fans planning to attend Saturday’s Sports Direct Premiership fixture against Linfield, match tickets are available to purchase at: https://www.glentoran.com/tickets/home-tickets/