Paul Scholes identifies the three players Manchester United need to be great again

Manchester United's best chance of securing Champions League football may fall by the wayside on Thursday, if they fail to overturn Liverpool's 2-0 lead in their Europa League last 16 clash.

Without the carrot of Champions League football next season, getting in quality players may prove extremely tough. Paul Scholes has been the chief complainant about United's travails, ever since Sir Alex Ferguson retired as manager. In an interview with United We Stand, the former Red Devils midfield maestro allowed himself to dream for a few moments. Asked what players could transform United's fortunes next season, and beyond, he said:

"I’d like Luka Modric. How old is he now? Might be a bit too old, but he’s a great player.

"I like Raphael Varane. I said realistic and I’m picking Real Madrid players?

"We probably need a centre forward but there’s not too many of them about so I’m going to say I’d like us to bring Paul Pogba back."

Modric, by the way, is a sprightly 30.

Defensive steel, a box-to-box midfielder and a creative imp that chips in with the odd, spectacular goal. United fans can dream too.

Reality may kick in this summer unless the club can finish 2015/16 on a high.