Newcastle United striker Shola Ameobi insists the Europa League is not Mickey Mouse.

Ameobi doesn't regard the competition as second rate.

He told the Mirror: "You're playing in Europe so that means you have done something right.

"Look at the likes of Atletico Madrid, who won it (the Europa League) last year. They are a fantastic outfit who play some great football, so there are some great teams in the competition."