Newcastle United midfielder Sean Longstaff says it seemed impossible the club would be preparing for a Champions League match two years ago.
Eddie Howe's side face Borussia Dortmund in the competition at St James' Park on Wednesday.
Newcastle are top of Group F after a 4-1 home win against Paris St-Germain and a goalless draw at AC Milan.
Two years ago the Magpies were bottom of the Premier League still awaiting their first league win of the season.
"Even sat here doing a press conference before a Champions League game seemed impossible," said Longstaff, who made his Newcastle debut in 2016.