David Moyes is relishing a ‘tough’ test against Sevilla after West Ham were paired with the record six-time winners in the Europa League’s last 16.
West Ham have impressed in Europe this season but will face a stern examination of their credentials against Sevilla, who have enjoyed a wonderful record in the Europa League since the turn of the century.
The Spanish side – currently second in La Liga and chasing a first league title since 1946 – have won the Europa League on six occasions, including three in succession between 2016 and 2018, alongside beating Manchester United in the 2020 final.
Moyes’ side will travel the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán for the first leg on 10 March, before facing Sevilla in the return at the London Stadium a week later,
Moyes is anticipating a difficult challenge against the Spanish side, but says the Hammers are keen to test themselves against the best as they look to continue their European campaign.
“I think it’s the pick of the round. Sevilla have been unbelievable in winning the competition. They’re probably the form side in Spain after Real Madrid at the moment,” he said at a pre-match press conference ahead of West Ham’s clash with Wolves this weekend.
“It’s a really tough game, but we want to test ourselves against the best. It would be good to get used to the stadium if we could go back there for the final!
“I was looking forward to the prospect of going to Rangers, but great credit to them for getting through against Dortmund.
“We’ve played well in Europe and we’ll take a big support to Seville and really look forward to it. There is more pressure on them than there is on us because we’re new to it. We’re getting used to it and hopefully we’ll get more used to it in the future.”
