We need to have the same belief as they do, but when Vic Akers took over as manager the gulf between ourselves and the leading German sides was huge. Now it's not.

Our belief so far is that we are seeing a fairly good response. We have kind of a unique product; we're not aware of any other merchants doing this.

The level is improving now. There used to be thrashings but now they have pre-qualifying games so the standard is higher when you get to this stage.

We could have given them more of a run for their money, but they're a very strong team and could well go on to win the cup, ... I honestly believe we are closing the gap on the top teams in Europe at club and international levels, but on this occasion the Frankfurt players' greater experience of big matches in big competitions probably gave them the edge.

The level is improving now, ... There used to be thrashings but now they have pre-qualifying games so the standard is higher when you get to this stage.

We started off well in the second leg and got a goal, which is what we needed. We can't complain about the first part of the game but it all changed when they got a penalty,