After some dramatic action in the Champions League so far this week, it’s time for the Europa League to take centre stage on Thursday.

With Birmingham, Fulham and Celtic among the British teams in action, here we assess their chances in part one of our Europa preview.

NK Maribor v Birmingham

Birmingham’s first proper away trip in Europe has captured the imagination of the club’s followers, even if the visit to Slovenia to face the relatively-unknown Maribor looks like a low-key affair to outsiders.

Both sides need a win in Group H after they were beaten on Matchday One – Birmingham at home to Braga and Maribor at Bruges – but Blues are likely to find it tough going in the Stadion Ljudski Vrt.

Rangers were beaten 2-1 in a Europa League play-off here in August and the Slovenians have lost in six games at home in Europe. Chris Hughton is again likely to use a side mixed with youth and experience and, all things considered, the best he can hope for from this game is a draw.

Prediction: draw at 9/4.

Odense v Fulham

Martin Jol, unlike some of his fellow Premier League managers, has been fielding a virtually full-strength side so far in Europe and he is again set to play plenty of his big guns in Denmark.

A 1-1 draw against FC Twente at Craven Cottage last time out means a win is important if the Londoners are to qualify but, again, it looks like being a difficult night for Fulham.

Odense have yet to win against English opposition in Europe in six games and we cannot see that changing on Thursday but the draw looks another tempting bet.

Prediction: draw at 11/5.

Celtic v Udinese

Celtic’s return to the Europa League in place of Sion, who were expelled for fielding ineligible players, did not begin well with a 2-0 defeat against Atletico Madrid a fortnight ago.

They have home advantage against Udinese on Thursday but will not face an easy night after the Italians impressively saw off Rennes 2-0 on Matchday One.

Antonio Di Natale is their star man and he was on target in the Group I opener so the Bhoys will have to keep him quiet at Parkhead. Udinese will fancy their chances of getting something from the game but, with strong vocal backing from the home fans, we expect Neil Lennon’s side to rise to the occasion and secure what could prove to be a vital win.

Prediction – Celtic win at 5/4.

Want £200 Free? Click here to visit Bet365 and claim your free money.