Aston Villa striker John Carew was delighted to see off Intertoto Cup opponents Odense on Saturday.

The seedings system at work in European football means Villa should receive an easier tie as a result of winning their Intertoto clash than they had against Odense.

And that should allow the club to progress into Europe proper for the first time in six seasons, a long overdue wait for a club of Villa's size, history and stature.

"It is important for us to get into Europe," said Carew, a veteran of many such campaigns with Valencia.

"We have come so far, now we have to fight to get in there.

"It is not going to be easy but a club like Villa needs to be in Europe."

It also means another twist to what Carew admits has been a difficult pre-season.

Having two such huge games in the middle of what remains a fight for fitness after the summer break does not make life easy.

"I guess we knew what the games were and what time they were coming, so we had to train hard and do our best," he said.

"It is a bit strange because these are such important matches but I am pleased to say we have come through so far."