A trip to Bulgaria to face CSKA Sofia may not be what Newcastle had in mind as they return to Europe, but their beleaguered manager Ruud Gullit will be glad to make the eastern European trip next month.

Before Newcastle negotiate their UEFA Cup journey on September 16th, Gullit's team have formidable domestic dates at Manchester United and Chelsea to fulfil. Poor results then could well see someone other than the Dutchman head the European expedition.

England's other three entrants all start at home, also against eastern European clubs. Leeds will entertain Partizan Belgrade first after their tie was reversed because of continuing doubts over the suitability of Yugoslavian entrants playing in their country.

The return a fortnight later may be switched on UEFA orders to a neutral country, but last night the Leeds chairman Peter Ridsdale said: "It is possible the match could go ahead in Belgrade. A decision will not be made immediately, only after proper consultation."

Tottenham start at White Hart Lane against the little-known Zimbru Chisinau of Moldova, who lost to PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League third qualifying round this week. They also beat National League champions St Patrick's Athletic 10-0 on aggregate in the first qualifying round.

West Ham, who qualified for the tournament by beating Metz in the InterToto Cup final on Tuesday, entertain NK Osijek of Croatia first as they make their debut in the UEFA Cup after 18 years out of European competition.