Airdrie defender Craig Watson admits seeing Rangers and Celtic struggle at Den's Park this season is a stark reminder of the Scottish Cup challenge facing the Diamonds in Dundee today.

Last month, the Darks Blues earned a 1-1 draw with the Gers and claimed a battling point against the Hoops in a 3-3 thriller on home turf, so it is understandable that the bottom side in the Championship head to the City of Discovery with some trepidation.

But Airdrie have rediscovered some form of late, winning three games on the bounce to spark hopes of a comeback in the league and reach the last 16 of the country's flagship tournament.

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Watson says there is belief in the squad they can pull off an upset, but recent results for Dundee - the last week's 6-0 thrashings by Hearts and Celtic aside - tells him they will have a real fight on their hands.

Watson said: "It is an exciting game going up against Premiership opponents. During my time at Airdrie, we've had a good record against the top teams in the cup competitions over the last few seasons.

"Dundee is a really tough place to go. We've seen Celtic and Rangers struggle up there so that shows what we are up against, but it will be fun.

"I'm looking forward to us rolling the sleeves up and having a real battle up at Dens.

"Ultimately, we are in the competition to win it and I know that sounds a bit far-fetched to some people, but what is the point in taking part if you don't want to win it?

"That will be our mentality going into the game and, at worst, hopefully we can put in a good performance that we can take back into the league campaign."

Asked what it would mean for their season if they can pull off a shock, Watson joked: "Hopefully a nice wee bonus.

"That aside, any kind of result we can get would be huge for us. We will go and enjoy every minute of it."

The sides have already met before this season, with Dundee running out emphatic 6-1 winners in the League Cup.

Watson added: "I was injured in the previous cup game against them so hopefully I can get a run out this week.

"There is no reason why we can't go out and keep the form of the last three games going, keep that buzz about the place and keep the wheels turning."