Arsenal have already faced Greek opposition in eight separate seasons over the last 45 years. The ties have proved noteworthy and unpredictable, and have given a raft of Gunners a chance to shine on the European stage.
The first occasion was back in September 1981, with Terry Neill’s side defeating Panathinaikos 3-0 on aggregate in the UEFA Cup first round. Despite the firecrackers and din in Athens, our youngsters acquitted themselves superbly, with Brian McDermott and substitute striker Raphael Meade [below], who scored with his first touch in professional football by netting a bicycle kick, securing a 2-0 victory, before Brian Talbot netted the only goal at Highbury.