Recently-appointed Perth Glory head coach Ian Ferguson admits he is eagerly anticipating a fresh challenger.

The ex-Rangers star was yesterday installed into the job after Dave Mitchell decided to step down after a four-game losing streak.

Ferguson will get his first chance to lead the Glory into battle on Friday when they meet his former club, North Queensland Fury, in Townsville and he is keen to get things underway.

"I'm obviously delighted to have it, but there's a touch of sadness there getting a job this way," Ferguson said after Mitchell moved into the Director of Football role.

"I would have liked to have worked a bit longer with him (Mitchell) as an assistant coach.

"But I've got the opportunity now, the buck stops with me, I'm the head coach and looking forward and relishing the challenge.

"Let's hope the players have got that belief as well that we can go up there, get the three points and get us back in winning ways."