Aston Villa skipper Martin Laursen says the players are "buzzing" ahead of tonight's UEFA Cup clash with Ajax.
"The players have a buzz about Thursday. We are all aware that it has been too long that Aston Villa hasn't played in Europe and it is special," said the Dane.
"There is a special atmosphere about these games if you play Champions League, UEFA Cup or international games for your country.
"The Premier League is massive but it is still special to play in Europe because you are up against teams you are not used to playing against.
"To start our European campaign with Ajax at home is great. I was really happy to see that.
"It is great for us, great for the fans - they have wanted this for a long time. I know that from speaking with them.
"There is a long way to go before can think of winning the competition. That is a big step. The first thing we can focus on is to do well and be happy that we are here in the group stages."
