From Connah's Quay to Ajax?

The last time Kilmarnock played in European football, they were embarrassed by Welsh part-timers Connah's Quay Nomads.

Five years on, they are back on the continental stage and could be on course for a meeting with a true heavyweight.

Ajax are one of the sides that could come out of the hat for the Rugby Park outfit's Europa League second qualifying round tie - a prospect that hasn't escaped manager Derek McInnes.

"I hope there's somebody sitting in a room at Ajax asking the manager about potentially getting Kilmarnock as one of the options," he told club media.

"I don't think that'll be the case, but just talking about it is great.

"When you're supporting a team like Kilmarnock, there's ups and downs. That's part of being a supporter.

"It's important we try and enjoy the excitement of the draw. Hopefully it's not to some far-flung place and it's someone we can gay enjoy having a wrestle with.

"I would have hated seeing another team in Scotland be in our position. I'm totally thrilled we're in the mix for it."

Should Killie lose their opening game, they will drop down to the Europa Conference League, meaning a minimum of four games on the continent next term.

"Of course we want to go as far as we can," McInnes added

"We're realistic, we know the first game we're going to be against a team of real pedigree. It's actually what you want.

"For too long, European football and Kilmarnock has been synonymous with Connah's Quay. We need to try and change that.