Newcastle have been told to expect a tough test against Greek side Atromitos FC in their Europa League qualifier.
The Atoms boss Dusan Bajevic is excited and relishing the prospect of facing the Toon in the two-legged qualifier later this month.
He told the club’s official website:
“It is a tough draw. English football is popular worldwide and has its own characteristics, but we will not surrender.
“We will try with all our might. We have a chance and I think we will be ready by the time the first game comes round at home.”
The dates of the qualifier are yet to be officially confirmed, with Newcastle hoping for a favour from UEFA so that they don’t have to travel to Chelsea, two days after the away leg.
There have been reports that Newcastle have requested a fixture switch so that they play the home leg first. However, Atromitos are not so keen on this, as some of their players also have International commitments.
Alan Pardew knows that whenever the games take place, the Super League side will pose a tough test.
Speaking ahead of Newcastle’s final pre-season friendly at Cardiff, he said:
“It’s be a hard game, for sure. You don’t finish fourth in your league unless you’ve got something going on so they’re obviously on the up.
“It’s a tough journey which is going to take a little bit away from us. Certainly coming back from there to go to Chelsea on a Saturday is not ideal.
“I’m sure our fans will enjoy it. Athens is a fantastic city so it’ll be great to see the Geordies rumbling around there.”
Confirmation of the dates is expected on Monday.
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