MICHAEL BAKARE admits it will be a footballing dream to play in Europe.

The experienced striker will line up for Connah's Quay Nomads against Belarusian side, Shakhtyor Soligorsk in the UEFA Europa League first qualifying round next month.

Bakare, who counts Macclesfield Town, Dover Athletic, Welling and Wrexham among his many clubs, hadn't signed for Nomads when Andy Morrison's men lost 3-1 on aggregate against Finnish outfit HJK at the same stage of last season't competition.

But the 31-year-old can't wait to line up against Shakhtyor Soligorsk and says it will be a memorable experience.

"I imagine anyone that we had got would be tough and a good side," said Bakare. "To get into Europe is not easy.

"I don't know anything them to be honest but I can't wait to play them.

"I didn't not play in it last season so this will be European debut and I am really looking forward to it.

"It is something I have always wanted to do. It is important to me and exciting."

The home leg will take place at Rhyl's Belle Vue Stadium on Thursday July 12 with Nomads making the trip to Belarus seven days later.

The winners will face either Lech Poznan of Poland or Armenia's Gandzasar Kapan in the second qualifying round but Bakare is just focussed on trying to beat Shakhtyor Soligorsk, who currently sit fourth in the Belarusian Premier League.

"It would be great to get through but we have got to take each game as it comes so we have got to try and win the first game," said Bakare.

"I want to go as far as possible and I am sure my team-mates do as well but it is one game at a time."

Nomads, who finished third in the Welsh Premier League last season, also lifted the Welsh Cup for the time time in the club's history after beating Aberystwyth 4-1 in the final.

Bakare scored in every round up to the final and he continued his fine run in the competition by giving Nomads the lead on a day to remember for The Deeside Stadium club.

A regular on the scoresheet in the league, it capped a fine season for Bakare and Nomads.

"It has been good at Nomads and hopefully it gets even better," added Bakare.

"Winning the Welsh Cup and getting into Europe have been the two highlights for me and hopefully there are more to come.

"I am really enjoying it there. More players have signed full-time so it is really good, the club is moving forward.

"I have got some goals, hopefully I keep scoring and do well for the team."