AA Gent are in the quarter-finals of a European tournament for the first time in 31 years. The Buffalos made a big name for themselves with England’s West Ham United. Do Hein Vanhaezebrouck’s troops stand a chance against Londoners? Below we list the pros and cons of The Hammers.
star power
There are some roaring names at West Ham. Captain Declan Rice was listed with all of England’s top clubs last summer but opted to remain at the London Stadium. Lucas Paquetá also rings. The Brazilian attacking midfielder was level with Hans Vanaken in the summer but they went full for Paquetá after Club Brugge’s absence. Jarrod Bowen, on the other hand, is on fire in the Conference League he has already scored four goals, one less than Gift Orban and Hugo Cuypers.
target party
West Ham are consistently scoring in the Conference League. In eight games, it scored no fewer than 19 goals. The Buffalos are behind by 16 goals in ten games. Of those 19 goals, West Ham scored six against the insignificant AEK Larnaca. Nonetheless, the Ghent defense is on the alert.
Problems in the Premier League
What can speak for the Buffalos is that things are really not going well in the Premier League. West Ham are in a relegation battle. Within a month, when the disputes with Gent are over, money will also be at stake in the Premier League. There’s a real chance the Hammers will choose the Premier League over the Conference League and rest some troops. AA Gent also have fond memories of European nights against teams from the British capital. Tottenham won the Europa League in the 16/17 season.
Source : HLN