Manchester City goalkeeper Joe Hart insists the Europa League is an exciting competition to be part of.

He also believes the stature of the teams still left in speaks volumes for the prestige the trophy is held in around Europe.

"People can say what they want about the Europa League, but there are a lot of top quality sides in the competition," he told City's website.

"Sporting Lisbon, Ajax, Porto, Valencia and Manchester United - some of the biggest names in world football - are all in this to win it. It's a great competition and make no mistake, one we want to win."