West Ham boss David Moyes has admitted that this weekend's Premier League clash against Newcastle United is crucial in the race for European qualification.
The Hammers are currently seventh in the current league standings, four points ahead of Newcastle who have a game in hand and are also targeting a return to Europe. West Ham travel to St James' Park in the first match after the March international break.
A trip to Newcastle will see West Ham battle to significantly improve their away form, as well as secure the three points. The Hammers have won just one of their top-flight fixtures on the road since the turn of the year.
Moyes explained why the clash against Newcastle, a rival for European qualification, is likely to be vital their chances of success in the Premier League this season.
«I think it's really important,» said Moyes. «Every game now is important. We have nine to play and every game is going to be vitally important to pick up as many points as we can.
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»There's a few teams chasing to be in and around the European spots and we're one of them."
As well as the Premier League, West Ham are also competing on the European stage in the run-in. The Hammers will face Bundesliga leaders Bayer Leverkusen in the quarter-finals of the Europa League next month.
Moyes highlighted qualifying for Europe for the previous three consecutive seasons as an impressive achievement for the club. The Hammers boss explained why he is determined to see that run continue for a fourth year.
«It would be unbelievable for us to get four years in a row,» said Moyes. «I think the level of
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