MOTHERWELL striking ace Bob McHugh believes that Darren Randolph could be the busiest man at Fir Park on Tuesday night.

Excitement is building as the Steelmen look forward to their Uefa Champions League third round qualifying tie against Panathinaikos, but McHugh is well aware of the challenge that awaits.

The Greek side have a tremendous pedigree in European football, while for Motherwell it is a sporadic opportunity to dip a toe into continental waters.

The 21-year-old, while aware of the magnitude of the task that lies ahead, is still optimistic that with a bit of luck the men in claret and amber can pull off a shock.

And for that to happen, McHugh knows Irish goalkeeper Randolph will need to be in inspired form to give Well a fighting chance.

"I think we all know to expect a very strong side," said McHugh.

"It is going to be one of those nights when we need everyone to be at the very top of their game. Even so, it could be that big Darren is the guy who is involved more than anyone.

"He is a smashing goalkeeper and I am sure he will relish the challenge of keeping Panathinaikos at bay, but as a team we need to try and restrict them as much as we can.

"It means we need full concentration from everyone and we'll need to play with our heads as much as anything else."

There are expected to be up to 10,000 supporters in Fir Park and McHugh believes the punters are smart enough to know that it will be a different kind of game that the home side will play.

"We might find ourselves chasing shadows at times because Panathinaikos, just like many European teams, will try and keep the ball," said McHugh, who netted a brace against Hamilton Accies on Tuesday night.

"We need to be patient and not panic – and the vast majority of supporters I think are smart enough to appreciate that we can't go gung-ho in a match like this.

"When we do have the ball we need to try and keep it and make the most of any chances that could come our way."

McHugh doesn't expect to start the game against the Greeks after taking a precautionary break from pre-season training in order not to aggravate a hamstring niggle.

However, after his recent form, his fingers are crossed that he will make Tuesday's squad.

"I'll be gutted if I'm not in there," he said. "This is what we have been talking about all summer and you just never know if it is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime chance.

"The guys are all really looking forward to it and I am desperate to get on."