Being back in Europe is great feeling for Newcastle United
The stage was set, the interpreter was whisked in and a clutch of Greek journalists gathered to hang on every word from Alan Pardew.
It was at that moment that the reality of being back in Europe for the Magpies was officially confirmed in my mind.
Late night press conferences, training in the opposition's stadium and the immense feeling that something special could be about to happen.
Following Newcastle is all about moments but does it really seem three years ago that I was stood in the Villa Park press room trying to take in the enormity of relegation?
Have just three seasons unfolded since the southern media were sharpening their pencils and national TV crews were zooming in on that fans sat outside Shearer's with the tears running down his face?
Indeed this has been what seems to be a fast process back to the upper echelons of the Premier League and back into Europe.
Tonight we'll see Newcastle bolster their European history and take their tally of games to 121 on the big stage.
It is a proud statistic for Geordie fans and while many opposing supporters love to taunt the black and whites about the lack of silverware, Toon Army foot soldiers can take pride out of their history in Europe with few teams anywhere near 121 matches.
But for it to continue Newcastle must get beyond Atromitos - a team with nothing to lose.
This is very much their cup final tonight, as much as that sounds like a tired old cliche.
However, this is more than winnable for Alan Pardew's side even if he has been forced into several changes.
With the group stages potentially 180 minutes away many fans will be hoping this is just the start.
Whatever way you look at it - Newcastle United are back where many feel they belong.
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Lee Ryder - Proudly born and bred on Tyneside, the Chronicle's chief sports writer has followed the fortunes of the club over the last three decades as a Toon fan and football writer.
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