Although the Warriors lost their URC games against the Stormers and Bulls, Bhatti reckons the South African sides will have prepared Glasgow for the physical challenge they can expect at the Matmut Stadium de Gerland.

“It will be similar to what we faced out in South Africa – they look like a good set-piece side,” the Scottish international told The Scotsman. “They’ve also got some class players in the backs like Josua Tuisova.

“It will probably be won or lost up front. If we can match them physically as a pack, then we should come out on top because we’ve got the firepower in our backs to score tries.”

Glasgow have generally performed poorly away from home this season, but they did the double over Lyon in 2018-19, beating them 42-22 away and 21-10 at home in the Heineken Champions Cup pool stage, and triumphed 27-17 at Newcastle Falcons in the Challenge Cup Round of 16.

“We had a good win down in Newcastle, albeit we fell off it slightly in the second half,” commented Bhatti, who played in the Warriors’ tie at Lyon three seasons ago.

“Lyon will be another massive test. It’s knockout rugby in Europe. These are the games you want to be involved in.

“This is why we play rugby. We said it in South Africa – playing in these big stadiums against some World Cup winners.

“It would be massive for everyone involved with the club if we can push on and reach a European semi-final.”

Glasgow have yet to reach a European semi-final, having lost their three previous quarter-finals to Saracens, including in the 2006-07 Challenge Cup.

However, Bhatti revealed: “We haven’t really spoken about it. What we have discussed is the fact that we’ve been in this position before and that it is achievable.”

Glasgow Warriors prop Jamie Bhatti believes the Scottish side’s recent two-game trip to South Africa in the United Rugby Championship will prove ideal preparation for their tough EPCR Challenge Cup quarter-final at top seeds Lyon on Saturday night.