Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has admitted that winning the Europa League is now a "target" for him.

The Portuguese coach, whose side are competing in Europe's second-tier tournament this season, believes that the victor's prize of Champions League qualification has brought "new meaning" to the competition.

Mourinho told reporters on Wednesday: "My opinions change because the rules change and the Europa League winner qualifies for the Champions League. For the last couple of years the Europa League has new meaning for big teams.

"I don't change my opinion that big teams belong in the Champions League with the history, but the Europa League is a target because you can qualify for the Champions League."

United, who have claimed six points from their opening three fixtures in Group A, take on Fenerbahce on Thursday.