Craig predicts Dons success Storie
EUROPA LEAGUE DRAW
CRAIG STORIE believes Aberdeen will enjoy a Europa League bounce from Derek McInnes’ decision to stay on as boss.
The Pittodrie midfielder says that show of loyalty by snubbing Sunderland is perfect timing as the Dons look to make an impact on the continent.
After being paired with either Kazakhstan outfit Ordabasy Shymkent or Bosnians Siroki Brijeg in the second qualifying round, Storie insists the players aim to repay their gaffer by reaching the group stage.
He said: “We have been in Europe now for the last three years and we’ve done well – we’ve just lacked a wee bit of luck.
“Maybe this is our time now to push on and make our mark in Europe. The speculation about the gaffer is over. He is staying here and the boys will do all they can for him.”
Storie has experience of facing opposition from Kazakhstan after being on the bench during a 2-1 defeat by Kairat Almaty two years ago which saw them go out in the third round on away goals.
The Scotland Under-21 cap said: “It was an incredibly long journey to Almaty and it was absolutely roasting there but we were also up against a side of a high standard.
“We were unlucky not to progress. I felt we played well in the return leg at Pittodrie and we were on the front foot for most of the game.”