'Every Europa League game like a final for Manchester United'

'The Europa League is a massive thing for us now -- it's a trophy and it gives us qualification for the Champions League. With the players we have got, we can be unstoppable'

Manchester United have set their sights on winning the Europa League as an alternative route into next year's Champions League, defender Luke Shaw has said ahead of the first leg of their quarter-final against Anderlecht on Thursday.

United are fifth in the Premier League, four points behind ManchesterCity, who occupy the final qualifying spot for next season's Champions League.

The Europa League winners, however, also qualify for the Champions League.

"Every single game is massive now, but I think the one on Thursday is huge," Show told British media.

"We have to treat every game in that competition now like it's a final. We want to win that tournament.

"The Europa League is a massive thing for us now -- it's a trophy and it gives us qualification for the Champions League. With the players we have got, we can be unstoppable."

Fullback Antonio Valencia is expected to return against Anderlecht after missing United's last two league fixtures while goalkeeper David de Gea is a doubt with a hip injury.

United's Europa League matches are sandwiched around a clash with Premier League leaders Chelsea on Sunday.

United youngsters urged to learn from criticism

Manchester United youngsters must use manager Jose Mourinho's criticism as motivation for development, defender Eric Bailly has said.

Mourinho has been in the spotlight recently for his public criticism of 21-year-old defender Luke Shaw but Bailly insists that the manager's assessment would serve as valuable learning experience for himself and his team mates.

"Most of the players at Manchester United are young... We are here to learn so it is important to listen to the coach's advice and also the critics," Bailly told British media.

"Every player should receive some criticism because we are not perfect. So we have to accept the criticism from the coach and we have to keep on working because the most important thing is to work and improve and gather experience."

Bailly is one of six United players aged 24 or younger that have 10 or more league appearances this season with several other youngsters in the squad yet to play.

United, who are fifth in the Premier League, host Chelsea on Sunday and last won a league game against the leaders in 2012. The last three league meetings between the sides at Old Trafford have ended in draws.

However, United's immediate attention will be on the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Belgian side Anderlecht on Thursday.