Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has done his homework on Europa League opponents Athletic Bilbao.

The 22-year-old is hoping to be involved in the Round of 16 tie at Old Trafford.

"It was great to be able to test myself against different players and different nationalities," he told ManUtd.com. "Especially in the Champions League run last year. So far in the Europa League, we've played against a Dutch team and now we're facing a Spanish side so there are definitely some good tests.

"I saw one of their [Athletic Club's] games last week when I was away with England. We've watched some videos at Carrington today [Tuesday] and we'll watch some more tomorrow. They seem to be a very technically gifted side, one that's going to pose quite a few threats. But we've had some good training this week and we're looking forward to the game."