Rangers manager Steven Gerrard said he wishes he was playing against Osijek and urged his players to enjoy the atmosphere at Ibrox.

After a first-leg victory in Croatia, the Light Blues have a 1-0 advantage going into the tie and will play in front of a sold-out stadium in Glasgow as they look to progress to the third round of qualification.

The former Liverpool captain has played in his fair share of big European nights and said he wished he could be on the park but emphasised that it's more important that his Rangers players go out and enjoy the occasion.

He said: "I will pass on my experience to the boys of what to expect but it's about these lads, they should relish this opportunity with the chance for them to go and perform in front of a full-house at Ibrox.

"If you're a top player it should get your juices flowing.

"I wish I was playing in it."

Gerrard's side had to sustain large spells of pressure to secure their victory in Croatia and there has been some negative comments coming from the Osijek camp about Rangers display ahead of the second leg.

The Rangers boss said he hasn't given much thought to the remarks as he focuses on his own team.

He said: "I think the opposition are very confident.

"I don't think they've had many positive things to say about us.

"But we can't control what they say, how they're feeling, and the position they're in.

"We're confident and looking forward to a special atmosphere at Ibrox.

"My focus is on us and my job is to prepare my team and my players. We will always respect opponents.

"We will go and do what we have to do and not concentrate on what comes out from other teams camps."

Should the Ibrox side prevail on Thursday, either Maribor or Georgian outfit Chikhura Sachkhere lie in wait.

However, Gerrard said he isn't looking that far ahead as he expects a tough match against Osijek.

"Tomorrow night will be a difficult test. They are confident and have threats.

"We'll need our A game tomorrow to get through and then we worry about qualification.

"There is no talk here of the next stages until each game has passed."