Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera says they'll be taking the Europa League seriously.

The group-stage draw takes place at 12:00 BST on Friday and the Reds are expected to be seeded in pot one, alongside Herrera's former La Liga outfit Athletic Bilbao. Speaking to MUTV, the Spaniard offered his view of the competition this season and looked forward to discovering which teams Jose Mourinho's men would face.

"I think it is a very enjoyable competition and we want to fight for every competition we have this season," Herrera said. "The Europa League has become more important every season - I think UEFA has worked very well on that. I think we are the biggest club in the draw and we have to respect our history. We want to fight for that title and we are very excited to see the draw.

"The players want as many games as possible so we have the chance to play every Thursday, Sunday, Thursday, Sunday. It is very important for us. Everyone is going to be important. We can play against big teams as well. I have the chance to play against my former team and I think it is a very good competition.

"Last season another English club [Liverpool] lost the final against Sevilla. Then when you win the competition you have the chance to play in the Super Cup so everything is positive. There will be time for everyone in the squad and hopefully we can get as far as possible in the competition."