Moyes: We’re a force in Europe
IT was a win which gave West Ham real hope of qualifying for Europe next season.
But this is a Hammers side who believe they now belong in continental competition.
So manager David Moyes will not just be buoyed by a big three points in the Premier League, which put the top six in their sights, but also a fine victory ahead of their return to Europe.
After the 3-1 success at Everton, West Ham take on Freiburg – a side they beat twice in the group stage – as they resume their Europa League bid on Thursday.
Now Moyes is hoping teams respect their pedigree after their Conference League success last season followed a last-four defeat in the Europa a year previously.
“We are now being seen as a team where people say, ‘Bloody hell, they have had a semi-final and won a final’,” said Moyes. “I have got to hope that we keep that up.
“We have settled really well in the European games,
we have played well, and won games.”
Fabian Schar has been dubbed a “one-off ” creative centre-half after influencing all three Newcastle goals in their 3-0 victory over Wolves.
The Swiss international pinged a raking 60-yard pass from under pressure in his own box to send Tino Livramento on his way to score.
Schar also sent Anthony Gordon on a breakaway after intercepting and passing for Newcastle’s opener.
Boss Eddie Howe said: “There are not many centre halves like Fabby. He is a total one-off. He is a very good defender when he is absolutely concentrated and really well-trained.”
Ollie Watkins grabbed two in Aston Villa’s 3-2 win at Luton and admits chasing a Champions League spot and going great guns in Europe aren’t his only thoughts.
The striker said: “If I said I wasn’t thinking about the Euros [in Germany], I would be lying to you.”*