Michael Carrick says it doesn't matter how you get through in the Europa League, as long as you do.

Manchester United made tough work of advancing to the semi-finals with two hard-fought contests against Anderlecht, eventuating in a 3-2 aggregate triumph thanks to tonight's last-gasp 2-1 win at Old Trafford.

Carrick admits United were not at their best, especially in front of goal, but was relieved they could get the job done and move on to the final four of Europe's second tier club competition.

"We didn't start well but we did capitalise on the goal," Carrick told BT Sport.

"We created a few chances and didn't take them again - we thought it might be one of those nights.

"But we're through - that's what you have to do.

"People are saying 'what do we prioritise'? We've got to fire on all fronts.

"We have got a duty to do that. There is great belief in the squad, a great atmosphere and we hope to carry it on."

Henrikh Mkhitaryan scored a 10th-minute opener before Sofiane Hanni equalised for the Belgians, prior to Marcus Rashford's well-taken extra-time winner.