Julien Laurens backs West Ham to cause Sevilla problems in Europa League
West Ham face a “tough” draw against Sevilla in the Europa League but should be able to “cause problems” for the Spanish side, according to Julien Laurens.
The Hammers were drawn against the side currently second only to Real Madrid in La Liga, after the Andalusians came through the playoff round against Dynamo Zagreb 3-2 despite a 1-0 defeat in Croatia last night.
David Moyes’ side topped their group and had the luxury of going straight into the last 16, but have a chance to go further in the competition despite an added incentive for their opponents.
European football expert Laurens told talkSPORT this morning (Friday 25 February, 11.25am): “This is a tough one for different reasons. The first one is the final is in Sevilla, so as you can imagine there will be extra motivation for the Sevilla players.
“This is a good Sevilla team, despite being disappointing in the Champions League.
“They don’t score as much as they used to last season, they are struggling to create chances despite Papu Gomez, Rafa Mir, Anthony Martial is now there, but defensively they’re strong.
“It’s a huge game for West Ham, but I think this is one that if West Ham put their strongest team out and have good momentum going into the game they will cause problems for this Sevilla team.”
Big draw
Although many fans were excited at the prospect of a visit to the Camp Nou to face Barcelona they have instead been handed a tie against the side currently nine points better off in Spain.
The Spaniards will be favourites, especially considering their pedigree in the competition.
They are most successful team in its history with six wins, having lifted the trophy most recently the season before last.
And their dominance in recent years is unmatched as all of those titles have come in the past 15 seasons.
The Hammers will have to be at their best to overcome their opponents but have proven they can defeat vaunted opponents this season.
Excellent wins over Liverpool and Chelsea in the league, knocking Manchester City out of the EFL Cup, and the strong showing the Europa League group stage should mean they do not fear anyone.
Although form has been flagging lately a pair rousing European nights could be what this side needs to inspire them back into form.
In other West Ham news, upcoming opponents Wolves appear to have suffered a significant injury blow.
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