STEVEN GERRARD wants his Rangers team to learn from the experiences both good and bad from their last meeting with Benfica ahead of tomorrow.
The 3-3 draw in the Europa League in the Estadio da Luz three weeks ago saw Gers play some outstanding football to lead 3-1 at one stage before being pegged back.
Gerrard and his staff have analysed that match in depth ahead of Benfica visiting Ibrox tomorrow night, with the manager admitting he has massive respect for the Lisbon club.
Speaking at this morning’s press conference, he said: "I can definitely feel a determination in the group and in the team, but I have felt that since the first day we reported back.
"I wouldn't describe our performance in Portugal as great - I think there were periods of the game that were great.
"There were big things and big positives to take from the game, but also big learning opportunities as well.
"It is a game we have looked at in good detail where we went right and where we went wrong.
"We need to try and use that experience going into this 90 minutes. A lot has been said of Benfica in-terms of what they have got available and what they haven't, but one thing is for sure, the 11 starters they pick will be a real big challenge for us come tomorrow night.
"Winning games and going on unbeaten runs definitely breeds confidence and belief in the group.
"Looking into tomorrow's game as well, I think the players have experienced playing against these players and this team not so long ago and we have shown that, certainly for big parts of the game that we could match Benfica and certainly compete.
"So this is a game that the players are very much looking forward to. We have major respect for Benfica individually and collectively.
"You are talking about high-level players and a high-level club, and a manager with big experience.
"We expect a very, very tough game tomorrow but a game that we are really looking forward to and are excited about and we couldn't be going into it in a better place if you think about the run of games we have been on."
There have been reports of Benfica missing a number of players for the match as a result of Covid, injuries and suspensions – but Gerrard insists despite all that, his main focus remains on his own players.
He continued: "The main focus is always us at Rangers, and the majority of any preparation we have is mainly focused on us.
"We obviously have to pay attention to what is happening elsewhere as we need to know possible teams and who we could be facing from a personnel point of view and what type of team or formation we think we could be facing.
"But, very much the focus is on my team and trying to prepare us in the best possible way."
The manager also gave an injury update this morning, adding: "Ryan Jack is a doubt for tomorrow's game and we won't know on Ryan until later on today whether he is available or not.
"Zungu will be missing as well - we are hoping to have him back in a week to 10 days’ time - he's not got a big issue but unfortunately he's not available for us tomorrow, and the rest is as it was from the weekend."
WATCH STEVEN GERRARD IN FULL BELOW