Crusaders are hoping to have more luck in the Europa League than their Irish League rivals.

They entertain FC Rabotnicki of Macedonia on Tuesday knowing Linfield and Lisburn both suffered damaging defeats when the competition began last week.

It is a big occasion for the Irish Cup winners and especially central defender Colin Coates, who is beginning to catch the eye of clubs in England and Scotland.

Manager Stephen Baxter believes his players can give a good account of themselves against a team that lost narrowly to Bolton two years ago.

He has been pleased with their approach in friendlies and said ahead of this second qualifying round first-leg tie: "There is a hunger about us, which is satisfying.

"I have been happy with our work-rate in pre-season and it would be good if we could keep the momentum going."

One player who will be keen to impress more than most is captain Colin Coates, who has set his sights on a move to England in order to enhance his international credentials.

The Northern Ireland defender has been linked with a move to Leeds and although it has been played down by United boss Simon Grayson, Coates is hoping to show what he can do at Mourneview Park.

"I need to be playing full-time in England to get further caps," he said.

"But my focus is on this game and if we work hard and stay well organised we can get a result.

"We know we will be up against a good, physically strong team who will be technically very good.

"Realistically, you are not going to get many players from the Irish League holding down a regular place in the Northern Ireland squad.

"Every player wants to play at the highest level possible and I don't want to have any regrets.

"I'd love to play for Northern Ireland again - it was a massive honour to pull on the jersey and hopefully things will work out."