Spanish sides look to carry domestic form into Europa League

Athletic Club Bilbao, Celta Vigo and Villarreal will look to carry their recent good domestic form with them into Europe when they play their Europa League ties on Thursday.

Following a draw away to Real Madrid and a win at home to Osasuna, Villarreal are currently fourth in the Liga standings and after winning their opening group game at home to Zurich, Fran Escriba's side travel to face Steaua Bucharest.

Athletic Club Bilbao have won their last four domestic games, but their 3-0 defeat in their opening Europa League game away to Sassuolo two weeks ago means a win at home to Rapid Vienna is vital for the Basque outfit.

Coach Ernesto Valverde will make some squad rotations with players such as Sabin Merino and Iker Muniain likely to get a start.

"It will be difficult for us to win a European title, but it is not impossible," commented Athletic midfielder, Benat, who aims to build on last season's quarter-final place.

Morale in Vigo has picked up after two league wins and striker Giuseppe Rossi is aiming to add a European triumph to that domestic success when Celta are at home to Greek side Panathinaikos.

"Our first aim in Europe is to get out of the group phase and if you want to do that you have to win your home matches," said Rossi.

Celta drew away to Standard Liege a fortnight ago and a home win would be a big step towards the last 32. Endit