West Ham goalkeeper Areola excited ahead of ECL semi at AZ

West Ham goalkeeper Alphonse Areola is excited ahead of their Europa Conference League semifinal at AZ ALkmaar.

Will be in Holland defending a 2-1 first-leg lead.

Areola told the club's website: I have always loved competing in Europe.

Of course, it's a different degree of visibility to the Premier League, which is very widely followed.

"But Europe is also very important. At the European level, there is nothing better than playing in these competitions. Last season, we made it to the semi-final of the UEFA Europa League.

"We had a good campaign, and it went very well. We hoped for a little more but, all in all, we managed to play well and show our worth in Europe.

"This year, we have shown that same dynamic. We've had a good winning streak, so it's up to us to continue that streak [and reach the final]."