Amorim prepared for criticism as he gives Europa final priority

RUBEN AMORIM says Manchester United's Premier League performances warrant criticism from the likes of Roy Keane but feels he has to play smart and take risks ahead of their make-or-break Europa League final.

- By SIMON PEACH

The Red Devils sealed their place in the all-English showpiece against Tottenham on May 21 with Thursday's 4-1 victory against Athletic Bilbao, wrapping up a surprise 7-1 aggregate triumph.

The Europa League offers silverware and Champions League qualification so has taken precedence towards the end of United's worst Premier League season, leading head coach Amorim to make eight changes for last Sunday's 4-3 defeat at Brentford.

Former skipper Keane raged about focusing on European games at the expense of domestic form - something the Portuguese has to weigh up again as they face West Ham on Sunday and travel to Chelsea before the final in Bilbao.

"We are trying to do our best, but I agree we can do better," boss Amorim said.

"I don't have nothing to say about the criticism because we deserve it.