Glentoran star relishing first taste of 'extra special' Linfield rivalry

Having previously spent three years at Glenavon, Daniels has long been aware of the significance of a fixture which was first played back in 1887 and pits the Irish League’s two most successful teams against each other.

While Linfield have the upper hand on their nemesis when it comes to historical records, Glentoran have enjoyed significant success in recent years under Declan Devine, winning three – including on Boxing Day – and drawing two of their last six league meetings.

Devine’s men also sealed League Cup and Irish Cup progress past the Blues last term.

This weekend’s clash could hold extra significance when it comes to deciding automatic European spots at the end of this season, while both are also determined to keep applying pressure on title favourites Larne.

Daniels has returned to Northern Ireland after winning three consecutive Cymru Premier crowns at dominant Welsh outfit The New Saints, and while he’s relishing a first trip to Windsor Park as a Glens player, the 29-year-old is clear emotion can’t get in the way.

"Derby games always have an extra edge to them but the Big Two game is extra special,” he said. "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 has started in Glentoran’s last three matches, helping Devine’s side extend their unbeaten run to seven, while they’ve lost just once – a 4-1 defeat to Larne – across the past 12.

The challenge of delivering silverware glory was one of Daniels’ biggest motivating factors to join The Oval outfit and he insists there’s a drive in the changing room to make that dream a reality.

"We have a very talented squad here but we all know it's about putting a shift in every week too,” he added. “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."