Sunday 21 September 2014 11:27, UK
Dundee boss Paul Hartley maintains his players have no fears as they prepare for the derby match with Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership.
The Dark Blues go into Sunday’s Sky Live clash having not beaten their City of Discovery rivals since November 2004.
However, Dundee are undefeated so far in six league outings since returning to the top flight, and were unfortunate to only draw in their last home match against Scottish Champions Celtic.
United will make the shortest trip in British football when they cross the street from Tannadice to Dens Park for the sold-out meeting to face a team brimming with confidence.
"We're really looking forward to Sunday's match,” Hartley said: "I think it's fair to say we are in the best condition we have been in for a number of years.
"And because of that I think we have a squad on the park who can compete with the best teams in this division.
"We have shown so far this season that we don't fear anyone and we go into the game against United with lots of confidence.
"It's one we want to win and we will try our best to do that. We will set ourselves out in the normal way but obviously we respect United as they are a good team."
Hartley has plenty experience of such occasions as a player, having taken part in the Edinburgh derby for Hearts against Hibernian, and for Celtic against Rangers.
But he insists his appetite has been whetted so much that he cannot wait to sample his first Dundee derby come Sunday lunchtime.
"There's a great buzz around the place,” Hartley said. "You can detect that when you are out in the city and the supporters are obviously relishing it as well.
"It is something that is new to me and a lot of our players but it is a game which has got the makings of being a cracker.
"It is sold out and both teams are doing well in the league so it is one we can't wait for.
"Being a player is different from being a manager and how you approach a derby. You have to take a step back and be a bit more calm.
"When you are a player you can do something about it out on the pitch.
"I have played in the Edinburgh derby and the big one, the Old Firm derby, but this is something new because I am a manager for the first time in one which brings its own challenges.
"So I am excited about it and just hope it's a good day all-round for the club."
Watch full coverage of Dundee v Dundee United on Sky Sports 3 on Sunday from 12 noon.