"A quick look at the AEK Athens team lines might jangle some nerves, but should Aberdeen be cowed by the Greek outfit on Thursday? Sure, the Dikefalos - or Double-Headed Eagle, for a literal translation - are one of the most successful clubs in Greek football, but only occasionally have they flitted onto the radar of most Scottish football fans."
"Yes, Athens was the surprise destination for much-coveted left-back Penrice when he departed Tynecastle in the summer after one storming season in Gorgie. It was a brutal campaign for Hearts fans, but the 26-year-old was the silver lining in a bleak period, standing out time and again after arriving on a free from Livingston. The Scot had to do some settling in, but he is now a regular start in the league fixtures and often comes off the bench in Europe."
OPAP Arena in Athens will host AEK Athens v Aberdeen on Thursday 23 October with a 17:45 BST kick-off and BBC Radio Scotland plus BBC Sport coverage. AEK carry the nickname Dikefalos (Double-Headed Eagle) and rank among Greece's most successful clubs, though they are only occasionally prominent to Scottish supporters. The squad features former Hearts left-back James Penrice, who joined in the summer for a reported 2m, settled in and now starts league matches while often appearing off the bench in Europe. The team also includes high-profile names such as Luka Jovic and Thomas Strakosha. Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin will be targeting vital Conference League points.
Read at www.bbc.com
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