Darmian Out To Extend Europa Quest

Manchester United full-back Matteo Darmian insists he and his team-mates will be fully prepared when Europa League opponents Feyenoord come to Old Trafford on Thursday night.

A win against the Dutch visitors would lift United into the qualification places and leave the Reds needing just one point from the final Group A game against Zorya Luhansk in Ukraine to guarantee progress.

"I think it is a difficult group because we have to face a difficult opponent, but we are still in the race," Darmian told MUTV. "We have an important game against Feyenoord and we have to win. We'll prepare to make sure we're ready."

United's current position, below Feyenoord and Fenerbahce, reflects the Reds' less-than-impressive away form in the group with defeats to both of those clubs at their grounds.

"I remember [the Feyenoord game in Holland] because it was not a good game for us," Darmian continued. "We have to change this and win our away games, but for now we’re playing at home and maybe that is a little bit easier. We want to win on Thursday and make our fans happy."

The Europa League is the only major trophy United have never won, and Darmian recognises its importance - not least because if offers the eventual winners a route back into Europe's top tournament.

"I think it's a big competition," said the Italy international. "It gives us a big opportunity to get into the Champions League which is crucial for a club like Manchester United. But if we want to continue in the Europa League, we have to win both [of our remaining] games, starting with Feyenoord at home."