Ander Herrera admits the Europa League could be Manchester United's best hope of making next season's Champions League.
The Red Devils take on Rostov at Old Trafford on Thursday night in the last-16 of the competition, with the score balanced at 1-1.
Herrera will line up against the Russian side ahead of a two-game domestic ban following his red card at Chelsea in the FA Cup.
United return to Premier League action against Middlesbrough on Sunday with the Red Devils currently sixth in the table, six points adrift of the top four.
And Herrera concedes they may well struggle to overhaul their challengers in the table.
"It is the most important match we have played so far [against Rostov] along with the EFL Cup final against Southampton," he told El Pais.
"We must be realistic. In the Premier League, we are not in the top four places that qualify for the Champions League.
"Therefore, this competition is key because it may be our best chance of playing in the Champions League next season."
United beat Southampton at Wembley last month and Herrera hopes to add a second trophy in the Europa League before the season is out.
"It is in the DNA of the club and this team to be winners," he added.
"We are doing things right and already have a title this season.
"It has to be the objective because it is what this great club should be doing."
No comments:
Post a Comment