Monday 22 June 2015 15:44, UK
Derek McInnes believes Aberdeen have been handed the toughest possible task if they are to reach the group stages of the Europa League.
The draw for the first qualifying round paired the Premiership runners-up with Macedonian side Shkendija with HNK Rijeka of Croatia waiting should they prevail in their first game.
Thereafter, there would be two further qualifying ties before the group stages but McInnes is refusing to look too far ahead.
He told Sky Sports News HQ: "Obviously I think it's difficult tie. We don't know too much about them, just the basics but we have managed to have a look at a couple of their games since the draw. Hopefully we will be able to have a closer look at them over the next few days.
"They finished their season strong and they have been in European football for the last couple of seasons. The fact that it is going to be in quite hot conditions over there - 30 degree plus - could be a factor. I think it's exciting, and it may be the toughest draw that we could have had, but hopefully we will go into the tie with confidence after our experience from last season.
'Momentum'
"Of course the aim is to do as well as we can and get to the group stages. Last year we beat the Latvians and then we went on to beat Groningen who went on to win the Dutch Cup. We got knocked out by Real Sociedad after a tight game at Pittodrie that we could have won.
"Hopefully we can get that little bit of luck and momentum again this time round. Last season was good, financially we did well and the supporters got right behind us."
Graeme Shinnie and Paul Quinn are two new arrivals at Pittodrie this summer and McInnes has not given up hope of further additions for next season.
He said: "I think the squad is strong. Graeme and Paul will be good additions and we have good competition in most areas. Hopefully we can get another one or two in before the window closes but I don't anticipate any more coming in before the first round of Europe. But if there are good players there and they are available then we will try and bring them into the club.
"The challenge is there for us to improve again next season and that will be our target. We will be doing our utmost to mount a challenge."
