Slaven gives his Euro verdict

Slaven Bilic is thrilled to finally see the Hammers competing in Europe and believes they have a real chance of winning through to the semi finals of the Europa Cup.

The former Hammers player and boss is currently out of work after losing his job at West Brom but is very much looking forward to the tie against Lyon like the rest of us.

And he is careful to point out that the French League One said has a long history in the European competitions and we need to tratet them with great care.

But he insists that he will be very disappointed if we can’t push our way past them, and stand within sight of a massive final.

Whilst West Ham will feel they are still in the race to finish fourth via the Premier League, in truth, their best bet is the Europa League itself.

Commenting on the game he said: “When I played for West Ham ages ago, then when I managed West Ham fans were talking about those European nights ages ago.

“Now it’s happening there. The London Stadium. 60,000 people. And it’s great.

“To be fair, it’s strange to say, but they are the favourites against Lyon. Yes, I think so. First of all, they beat Sevilla. Secondly, they are playing really good. They are very high in the Premier League.

“On the other side, Lyon is a big name. They have more experience in European games. But, Lyon in the French leagues are not playing good. I will be very disappointed if West Ham doesn’t go through.”