West Ham go into this week’s clash with Anderlecht knowing they could secure themselves a major boost by earning a break from European football.
The Hammers are preparing to welcome the Belgian side to the London Stadium, having beaten Fulham in a controversial London derby on Sunday.
Last week, the Irons won 1-0 in Belgium and now know that a victory on Thursday would secure top spot in the group and confirm their qualification for the last-16.
In the Conference League, group winners advance to the last-16, while runners-up face a play-off against teams that have dropped out of the Europa League.
The last 16 does not take place until March, so the Hammers could effectively give themselves a break by winning the game.
Of course, they will need to play out the two remaining group games, against Silkeborg and FCSB, but boss David Moyes would have the opportunity to play the kids, giving the first-team an extended rest from midweek action.
A win on Thursday COULD secure us first spot. It’s not guaranteed, because we still have to play Silkeborg and they can earn 12pts as well.