Henrikh Mkhitaryan "pleased" to return to Ukraine

Manchester United winger Henrikh Mkhitaryan has said that he is "pleased" to return to Ukraine ahead of his side's Europa League clash with Zorya Luhansk on Thursday night.

The 27-year-old spent four years in Ukraine, most notably with Shakhtar Donetsk, where he scored 44 goals in 106 appearances.

That includes a hat-trick in Odessa - where United's final group game will take place - and he recalled his fond memories of both the city and the country.

"It's always clearer to be here in Ukraine. I have very good memories of being here," he told reporters.

"I had four amazing years playing in Ukraine and I can say my last game that I played in Odessa was a very good one because I scoured my first hat-trick for Shakhtar ever. So I'm pleased to be back."

Manchester United need a draw against Zorya to guarantee their place in the knockout stages of the Europa League.