Ash Taylor hoping familiarity can help Aberdeen to Europa League group stages

Derek McInnes’ side will embark on their seventh straight Europa League campaign with the aim of reaching the group phase of the campaign for the first time in the manager’s Dons tenure.

With only one player departing the club, defender Greg Leigh, and former Don Jonny Hayes returning to Pittodrie last season, there is a feeling of familiarity about the squad and Taylor believes that should give the players confidence for their latest qualifying attempt.

He said: “We are not rebuilding like Aberdeen have done for the past few seasons. You are normally straight into Europe after just four weeks to prepare. This time we will have had longer and will be able to hit the ground running".

The Dons qualified for the Europa League as a result of their fourth place finish in the Scottish Premiership.