A degree in psychology isn't required to recognise how Derek McInnes thrives on the "intensity and pressure" of driving Aberdeen towards the summit of Scottish football and keeping them there.

If the workload is additionally heavy because his success has brought Europa League football for the second successive season, McInnes's confidence in his own ability is indicative in the quiet yet steely style in which he responds to questions.

That his Dons have already disposed of Shkendija, of Macedonia and HNK Rijeka, of Croatia, in that competition is no mean feat, and while the Kazak club, Kairat Almaty, will try to end that impressive run at Pittodrie on Thursday night, an away goal by Kenny McLean in the first leg five days ago leaves plenty of room for manoeuvre for the Reds.

Kairat are fully aware of the high fitness levels within the Aberdeen squad as well as an energy and psychological strength that allows them to commit for a full 90 minutes-plus.

A one-goal lead from their home leg in this third qualifying round tie, is too slender, the visitors will recognise, to feel comfortable.

There is also the pride of playing for Aberdeen, instilled into his players by McInnes, that the visitors will have to overcome.

He leaves listeners in no doubt that he has embraced wholeheartedly the job he took over just over two years ago.

"For the staff and players, we can't affect what everybody else is saying, whether it's good or bad," he said.

"People ask me about the intensity and the pressure, but it's been there since day one.

"I knew what I was getting into and it's why I was keen to take this job on.

"This is why players should want to play for Aberdeen. There must be an element, when they sign or coming through the youths, that they are coming to Aberdeen to win things.

"We've got to meet that demand. If we lose two or three games on the bounce, it will be 'Aberdeen have flattered to deceive' and we'll get criticism.

"We need to have a balance to it. We are confident in how we work; we're confident we have the dressing room and players who can deliver results.

"I feel the players also feel that and those are the ones I really care about, but the support have more than played their part."

McInnes expects a 20,000 packed Pittodrie on Thursday night as he point to an indefinable difference in his squad this season, one boosted greatly by the signing of Graeme Shinnie, a superior midfielder who made his name as a left back.

Whatever that new quality is, McInnes's ethos is at the heart of it.

"Aberdeen have got off to great starts in the past," he said, "but I feel there's something real about my team.

"I feel every game we play, we will make it difficult for the opposition and we might not always be at our best but we'll make it tough for them.

"We feel the anticipation is going to be brilliant on Thursday. We'll have a full house, getting right behind the team.

"But we can't say it is a special night at the minute. It will only be special if we get the job done and get through.

"It's going to be a big challenge. They are a good team.

"But bring it on. We are looking forward to it and it is one we will relish and set about in the right manner."