The manager of West Ham, David Moyes, aims for his team’s recent resurgence in the Premier League to serve as a catalyst for another successful campaign in Europe this season.
On Thursday, the Hammers will face German team Freiburg in the first leg of a Europa League last-16 matchup.
Two consecutive victories have propelled Moyes’ side to seventh place in the league standings, with the manager setting his sights on securing a European berth.
“I sense we’re getting back to where we should be,” said Moyes, who won the Europa Conference League last year.
In the 2021-22 season, the Hammers also advanced to the Europa League semi-finals, prompting Moyes to challenge his team to secure a fourth consecutive season in continental competition.
The atmosphere surrounding the east London club appears to have shifted following their recent victories over Brentford and Everton in the Premier League.
As Moyes’ contract approaches its conclusion in the summer, speculation about his future at the helm has intensified. During a defeat against Nottingham Forest last month, some supporters displayed a ‘Moyes Out’ banner, indicating discontent.
A portion of the fanbase grew increasingly dissatisfied after West Ham endured a poor start to 2024, enduring an eight-match winless streak.
“I want us to have another great run in Europe. I’d also like us to qualify for Europe again in the league,” said Moyes, whose side beat Freiburg home and away in the group stage before Christmas.
“We had a period where we weren’t so good but we’re back on form at the moment and I sense we’re getting back to where we should be. Hopefully that continues [against Freiburg].
“I think for West Ham to be a European club is incredible. We’ve now been on that run for three years and we’ve played over 30 games in those three years.
“We want to keep it going and build on it.”
Morocco defender Nayef Aguerd is a doubt for the West Ham, while Ivory Coast winger Maxwel Cornet has not travelled to Germany because of a hamstring injury.