Wanderers are looking forward to a crack at Championship opposition when they face Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup tonight (Tuesday).
The Whites will be bidding to reach round three of the competition for the first time since 2018 when they meet Boro at the Toughsheet Community Stadium (KO 7.45pm).
After reaching the Championship play-semi-finals last season, Middlesborough’s only win so far this term came with a round-one victory at Huddersfield Town.
But Wanderers’ defender Jack Iredale knows the Teessiders will still provide a tough test as Ian Evatt’s men – victors over Barrow in the first round – look to maintain their momentum with a run in the cup.
“They are a Championship team who were right at the top end of the Championship last season,” said Iredale.
“They are in a higher division for a reason and it’s a division we want to be in next year. It’s a challenge we’re looking forward to and one we feel we can step up to.
“We want to win every game we’re in and this will be no different. We want to win and we want to progress.”
Iredale helped Wanderers steady the ship following their loss to Wigan Athletic in their last home game with a 1-1 draw at Burton Albion on Saturday.
The defender made his presence felt at both ends of the pitch as the Whites hit back to take a League One point at the Pirelli Stadium and make it just one defeat so far this season.
And Iredale believes Wanderers can bridge the gap against Boro to keep fighting on two fronts after going unbeaten against higher-ranked opposition in the summer.
“We played Everton and West Brom in pre-season,” he added. “I know it was pre-season but I think we gave a really good account of ourselves in those games and Tuesday will be no different.
“We’re looking forward to it. It’s a massive challenge for us and it’s an exciting one as well.”
Tickets for tonight’s cup tie will be available up until kick-off with supporters advised to buy in advance online HERE to avoid potential queues.