Bright lights still dazzle Grønkjær

Having played for the likes of AFC Ajax, Chelsea FC and Club Atlético de Madrid, Jesper Grønkjær is a seasoned European campaigner, but the forward said the UEFA Champions League still retained a certain special something for him as he bids to lead FC København into the group stage at APOEL FC's expense.

APOEL test
"I like the hype and pressure that comes with competing with the European élite in the Champions League," the 32-year-old told uefa.com.
Grønkjær saw his first club, Aalborg BK, impress in the UEFA Champions League in 2008/09, and the 32-year-old is eager to get back to Europe's top table, having last played in the group stage in his first season with his current club in 2006/07. Cypriot side APOEL may not have been the toughest play-off draw, but the forward will not be taking them lightly.

High expectations
"When, like us, you have managed to qualify for a group stage in Europe for three years in succession, pressure comes with the territory," he said. "It is important for the club to make a name for itself in Europe. Success breeds success and the expectations in Denmark are sky high, but there is no such thing as a walkover when you have reached this stage of the competition.

Partizan result
"APOEL knocked out Partizan Belgrade which tells a lot about the quality of the side," added the 72-times capped Danish international. "I am not approaching this game differently than any other game, though. Like always, I have studied my direct opponent and I will try my best to create the necessary chances for us to get a good result before the second leg in Cyprus."