Manchester United v Midtjylland: Louis van Gaal looks to ease pressure on his future by reaching the Last 16

A look ahead to the Europa League fixture at Old Trafford

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal oversees training (Reuters)

It’s a big game for…

Jesse Lingard: In his first full season for Manchester United, it is another big game for the 23-year-old, who has scored three goals in his last five appearances. The winger has been enjoyable to watch going forward and can play a big part in his own and United’s future by helping the club to turn around their 2-1 deficit from last week’s shock 2-1 defeat in Denmark. Without Wayne Rooney, United need to source goals from some where, and the Red Devils youngster can prove he is the man to do so on Thursday night.

Best stat…

4: Manchester United have lost their last four Europa League fixtures, starting with a 2-1 home defeat to Ajax – narrowly progressing 3-2 on aggregate to the last-16 – before being defeated in both legs, during the following round against Athletic Bilbao in 2012, and most recently losing away to Midtjylland last week.

Player to watch…

Memphis Depay: The Holland international has been far from prolific in his first season at Manchester United and has struggled to adapt to the Premier League. However, having scored United’s only goal in the first leg, the 22-year-old may fancy himself to help the Red Devils through the last 16 on Thursday evening with another goal. On his day, Depay is a handful for any defence and with Midtjylland the underdogs, if the Dutchman performs to his best, he could prove too much for the Danish outfit.

Past three-meetings…

Midtjylland 2 (Sisto, Onuachu) Manchester United 1 (Depay), Europa League, February 2016

Form guide…

Manchester United: WWDLLW

Midtjylland: WDLLDW

Vital information…

KICK-OFF TIME: 8.05pm

TV: Live on BT Sport 2, Thursday 7.30pm