Newcastle host Russian side Anzhi Makhachkala in the second leg of their last-16 tie today after the clubs walked away from Russia on an even keel after playing out a 0-0 draw.
Shola Ameobi: "As we have seen in Europe in the last few seasons, especially with Chelsea last year, if you put yourself in the mix towards the end of a tournament anything can happen, so I'm very excited.
"We desperately want to make the quarter-finals and keep progressing.
"We came away from Anzhi with a decent result and something we can take home to St James' Park in the second leg and build on.
"We are very determined to put our best foot forward and get through against Anzhi.
"It's my 50th European appearance. It's remarkable really because I didn't know I have now played 49 games in Europe.
"I was shocked.
"I'm a lucky boy. Every time I have put on the Newcastle shirt I have added myself to the history of the club and that means so much to me.
"I'm flying the flag for Newcastle and that is so important to me. Now I just want to get us into the last eight, where anything is possible.
"I've enjoyed some memorable games in Europe with the club and I hope we have another one on Thursday.
"At home we have to get back to where we were last year and make St James' Park a fortress.
"We have done that pretty well in Europe this season and with a big crowd behind us I know we can get through."