Martin O’Neill admits Villa are better equipped for the rigours of the Intertoto Cup this season – despite having the smallest squad in the Premier League.

Villa will play opposition from either Denmark, Finland or Northern Ireland over two legs on July 19 and 26 after finishing sixth to secure their return to Europe for the first time in six years. They will find out who they play on June 27.

Victory will guarantee entry into the UEFA Cup third qualifying round played in August, which could be the start of a mammoth 19-game extension to their season if they reach the final.

And boss O’Neill believes his side are better equipped for a challenge of European football this time around, 12 months after refusing the opportunity of entering the Intertoto Cup.

“My viewpoint still remains the same that this year we would be a bit better equipped this year in terms of quality,” he said. “But it might not be that way in terms of quantity.

“Last year we didn’t know where we were going and the players needed a break.

“It’s not me playing it down – I have my own view about our progress and the perception of the view on the progress.”

O’Neill has steered Villa to 11th and now sixth in two seasons.