Iain Dowie can't wait to lock horns with Martin O'Neill, when Rangers travel to Villa Park in the third round of the Carling Cup.

Saturday's draw pitted the R's against the big-spending Midlands outfit, in what promises to be a stern test for the Hoops against the much-fancied Premiership outfit.

"I am a great admirer of Martin O'Neill. I know him from working as a TV pundit with him during the World Cup. He's a great football man, and a terrific Manager," Dowie told www.qpr.co.uk.

"We know it's going to be a tough test at Villa Park, but we'll be going there with a strong squad of players.

"The teams I have put out in the opening two rounds against Swindon and Carlisle is testament to how seriously I take this competition.

"I am really looking forward to this challenge. I am sure Martin won't be doing me any favours, but I can't wait to lock horns with him."