It’s a huge night in the history of West Ham United as they play their first major European knockout fixture in more than 40 years.
The Hammers’ resurgence under David Moyes took them back into Europe with a fifth-placed finish in last season’s Premier League and they breezed through the Europa League group stages before Christmas but tonight’s trip to Seville brings a different challenge altogether.
Sevilla have a phenomenal record in the competition, having won it on no fewer than six occasions, and are going great guns in LaLiga, where they currently sit second to Real Madrid.
Moyes has called on his side - who have faltered in domestic competition recently - to rise to the occasion.
“I see this as a great game for us, great stadium, really good history in the competition,” said Moyes. “You want to play in Europe, it is the elite to challenge yourself against. Our effort last year is why we are here. We were hoping for the best teams at the draw, to challenge them and see how we do.”
