Houston looks ahead as Europe awaits

Peter Houston is currently looking ahead towards a massive week in the continuing development of his Dundee United side.

The Arabs take on AEK Athens in the first-leg of their Europa League qualifier on Thursday evening - which marks a welcome return to those glorious European nights on Tayside.

Then seven days later Houston's brave warriors fly out to Greece and no doubt a hostile and intimidating atmosphere as they bid to finish the job.

"These are the games that excite you," Houston told The Scotsman. "From when Craig Levein first took over and I came in as assistant we have strived to better the football club.

"As we progressed our aim was to get into Europe and do well in the cups, and it just so happened that the year Craig left and I took over was the year these things came to fruition, but I am sure it would have been the same if Craig had stayed," he continued.

"The biggest thing for me is that the last time we won the cup, in 1994, United were relegated the following season. As manager, my thoughts are focused on making sure nothing like that happens.

"I don't think for one second that will happen," Houston assured. "But we have to keep focused because if you look too far ahead, you're going to trip yourself up and we know this is going to be a tough season."

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.