Connah’s Quay Nomads begin their Europa League qualifying campaign on Thursday when they host Scottish Premiership outfit Kilmarnock at Rhyl’s Belle Vue.
The Nomads secured a runners-up position in last season’s Welsh Premier League, which saw them placed into the first qualifying round.
The Rugby Park outfit had an impressive 2018/19 campaign which saw them finish in third place, behind only Rangers and Celtic.
So which Killie players have the ability to cause Andy Morrison’s side problems? Here’s a closer look at some of their danger men.
Greg Taylor
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The left-back was a key part of the Kilmarnock side that did so well last season under now-Scotland manager Steve Clarke.
The 21-year-old was part of a defence which conceded the third-lowest number of goals (31) in the league last term, a figure which was only bettered by the top two sides Rangers and Celtic.
While his defensive capabilities were clear to see, he is also no stranger to making an impact in the opposite end of the pitch when required.
Last season saw him make the highest number of progressive runs per game (1.2) and touches in the opposition box (0.8) since he joined the club in the 2016/17 season.
His performances resulted in him being included in the Scotland squad for the EURO Qualifying games in June, where he subsequently made his senior international debut against Belgium.
Chris Burke
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A former Scottish international, Chris Burke is another player that the Nomads will need to keep a close eye on.
The 35-year-old, who made over 100 appearances for Cardiff City and Birmingham City, netted five times for Killie last season; enough to make him their third-highest goalscorer.
A workmanlike midfielder, Burke was a mainstay in the Kilmarnock starting XI that surprised so many people last term, and is a vital component of how the team play.
While he may be in the twilight of his career, his importance to the team cannot be understated and he is certainly a player that Morrison’s side will need to keep quiet if they are to come out on top.
Eamonn Brophy
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Killie’s top scorer in the Scottish Premiership last season, Brophy netted 11 goals and also managed two assists.
His efforts in front of goal were enough to see him finish as joint-sixth highest goalscorer in the top flight.
A former Celtic youth product, the 23-year-old made over 50 appearances for Hamilton Academical between 2013 and 2017, a period which saw him loaned out to Queen’s Park and Dumbarton.
The Glasgow-born striker signed for the East Ayrshire outfit in 2017, and has gone on to net 18 goals in his 57 appearances to date.
The club’s main goal threat, much of their hopes will be pinned on him to see them through, particularly with the departure of Greg Stewart, whose loan spell came to an end after contributing eight goals last season.
(Featured image: Will Viles)
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