Edson Álvarez at Stansted Airport

Álvarez: We believe we can continue along this path

Edson Álvarez is aiming for a repeat when West Ham United take on SC Freiburg in the first leg of their UEFA Europa League round of 16 tie on Thursday.

It was against the German side that Álvarez netted his first goal in Claret and Blue, in December's group stage 2-0 victory at London Stadium.

Now the pair lock horns again, this time with a spot in the competition's final eight on the line, and Álvarez is determined to grasp the opportunity.

The Hammers are on the hunt for more continental glory, following last season's Europa Conference League triumph, with the Mexico international keen to experience that himself.

What we want is to have a good performance and to be able to return home calmer, knowing that we have a chance to step forward
Edson Álvarez

"We are in a totally different situation [to the group stage games] where it's kill or be killed and we know it's going to be a totally different game," he explained.

"We come with the same humility, with the desire and will to win. We have a game plan that we must respect.

"As my teammates showed last season, they were able to become champions. So, I believe that this team is capable of what we want to continue for, continue on the right path and for our fans to come with us."

Edson Álvarez celebrates his goal against Freiburg
Edson scored his first goal in Hammers colours when we defeated Freiburg at home in December

The Irons will welcome Freiburg back to east London for the second leg of the tie in a week's time and Álvarez knows the importance of setting the tie up with a positive first leg result.

With more than 2,000 members of the Claret and Blue Army backing them in Germany, the No19 is sure they can do just that.

"We know that it is important to come out with a good result from here." he added.

"Obviously if you come out with a negative result it can get complicated. What we want is to have a good performance and to be able to return home calmer, knowing that we have a chance to step forward."
 

Burnley