West Ham boss David Moyes is happy using the Europa League to test their youngsters.
The Hammers have reached the quarterfinals, where they will face Bayer Leverkusen.
Moyes said, "One of the really important things about being in a European competition is that we have been able to give some of the young boys an opportunity. It is a bit easier to do that than it is in the Premier League.
"I take great pride in the players I've given their debuts to. Every time you give a young boy an opportunity it is a huge, huge thrill, but the Premier League has become so tough [because of the] level of the competition.
Earthy
"We have got [English] teams in the Champions League, Europa League and Conference League, so to get young players into the level of football [the Premier League is played at] where you think you can trust them and they can meet the standards required is not easy, it's really tough.
"I was thrilled for George Earthy [to make his senior debut against Freiburg]. George has been doing well. He is a really talented footballer, has a great attitude, and if he keeps working I am sure there will be a good future ahead for him."
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