Kilmarnock goalkeeper Cammy Bell hopes his side's recent indifferent form was a direct result of their impending cup final as he vowed to enjoy their Hampden adventure.
Kilmarnock have won just once in eight games since their Scottish Communities League Cup semi-final win over Ayr in January.
However, that victory came at Ibrox when Kenny Shiels' men overcame the hype surrounding Rangers' first game since going into administration to complete a league double over the champions.
And Bell is confident they will do themselves justice against Celtic on Sunday in another high-pressure situation.
"It has been a long time coming," the Scotland international said. "We've struggled over the last few weeks as well.
"Hopefully that has been down to the cup final in the back of people's heads and we can perform on Sunday, because we know we can.
"We have done really well against the Old Firm this season so we know we are not far away from Celtic if we perform on the day.
"It's all about getting everyone to perform to their maximum and we can hopefully go and lift the cup."
Killie's preparations have included a lunch trip for the squad and management and a media open day and Bell is determined to keep a lid on any nerves.
"It's always going to be a bit more intense but it's all about the way you handle it as well," the 25-year-old said. "You need to relax and we're out to enjoy Sunday as well.
"The manager has firmly drummed it into us that finals don't come around too often so you need to enjoy the day as well.
"The way you enjoy it is by going out and playing to your maximum ability."
Although Killie have struggled for wins in recent weeks, they have only twice conceded more than one goal since the 1-0 semi-final win.
And Bell goes into the match in confident mood.
"I think our chances are good," he said. "Both teams start at 0-0. They need to score against us first and it's obviously up to me to keep the ball out the net.
"Hopefully I can take my recent form into the game on Sunday and stop them from scoring and you never know what can happen, it's a cup final at the end of the day."
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