THE ISLAND party resort of Ayia Napa is 20-odd miles round the coast from here, a familiar Promised Land for the young Brit abroad seeking a coming-of-age foam party and a five-euro fishbowl.
Larnaca, though, seems a more fitting stop on West Ham's drawn-out European tour, David Moyes and his side here among the ruins of the ancient Greek city of Kition, seeking to rescue their crumbling season.
Last week's FA Cup exit at Old Trafford means the Hammers' focus is now split between their continental jolly in the Europa Conference League and a battle to avoid a first relegation in 12 years.
In truth, little that Moyes's side produce at the 8,000-capacity AEK Arena in tonight's last-16 first leg will do much to paper over the cracks laid bare in Saturday's 4-0 thumping at Brighton, which leaves the Hammers a point clear of the drop and facing another home must-win against Aston Villa on Sunday.
This story is from the March 09, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
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This story is from the March 09, 2023 edition of Evening Standard.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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