The New Saints’ young guns will be looking to make their presence felt on the European stage when they open their campaign against Icelandic side Fram Reykjavik tonight (6pm).
The Saints flew out on Tuesday morning and spent yesterday training at the Icelandic national stadium, the Laugardalsvollur, in preparation for the big Europa League first round qualifying round tie.
With the return leg at Park Hall next Thursday, assistant boss Mike Davies believes the Saints have what it takes to progress for the first time in 11 seasons in European competition.
The border side include a batch of new signings following the end of season departure of experienced campaigners, with the likes of midfielder Aeron Edwards (Caersws), defender Chris Marriott (ex-Wrexham and Cefn Druids), former Bangor forward Chris Seargeant and Rhyl winger Craig Jones filling the void.
Defender Danny Holmes and goalkeeper Simon Williams have also been added.
Holmes, from Tranmere Rovers, is the younger brother of TNS stalwart Tommy while Chester keeper Williams, 18, comes in as understudy to Paul Harrison.
“Some of the senior players have moved on and we have now got some lads who have not experienced Europe before,” said Davies. “But I’ve got no qualms that they can handle it as they are good players and will want to do well.
“We’ve still got lads like Steve Evans, who has played for Wales and has played in some big European ties, so there is still plenty of experience on the pitch.
“Whether you’ve played in several European games or none at all, it’s going to be an exciting time for everyone involved. This is certainly a tie we can win.”
The build up has gone well, with the Saints hoping to be at full strength with Seargeant and Steve Evans expected to shake of injury niggles.
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