Slaven Bilic has hailed the magnificent West Ham United support ahead of Thursday’s UEFA Europa League first qualifying round second leg against FC Lusitans.
Around 500 loyal Hammers fans are expected in Andorra to watch their team attempt to book their place in round two following last week’s 3-0 first leg victory.
All of the Hammers’ allocation was snapped up by Season Ticket Holders and Bilic thanked them for their fantastic backing.
He said: “West Ham fans are special, of course. I’m an ex-West Ham player and manager now, but it’s not just me – many players who have nothing to do with West Ham say it’s a special Club with special fans.
“It’s a big privilege for us to have that kind of support. They are coming to the game today and it’s great because we need their support. It’s a great trip, because maybe they would never go to Andorra if it wasn’t for the game. Everything points to a good day, and all we can do is play a good game.”
Bilic is no stranger to the Estadi Comunal d’Andorra la Vella, having led his Croatia team to a 6-0 victory at that venue in qualification for Euro 2008 and he is looking forward to making a return.
He added: “I remember the night I came here with Croatia. It was unusual because that first time we came here we had England in the group, Russia too, so we played in big stadiums and this was different.
“We had a good game – it’s all about when you’re going to score that first goal or the first couple of goals, but they never give up like we saw last week.
“That time we got more relaxed after two, they dropped a little and we won 6-0. I have good memories here.
“We come into the game with a good result. We won 3-0 at home and to be fair we shouldn’t have to score to be relaxed. It’s a game and a good chance for the first team players here to get more fitness, to have a game, score goals if they can and importantly perform well to prepare for the Premier League.
“For the young kids it’s an unbelievable opportunity to show themselves in Europe, and it is very good for everyone.”
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