West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen is eagerly anticipating the FA Cup quarter-final against Leeds United after his side reached the last eight on Monday night.
Before their Round of 16 match against Brentford, West Ham learned that either they or Brentford would host Leeds in the next round. The game went to penalties, with Nuno Espirito Santo’s team prevailing to secure their quarter-final spot.
West Ham now face tough Premier League fixtures against Manchester City and Aston Villa before the FA Cup ties kick off in early April. Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Bowen shared his thoughts on facing Leeds:
“Leeds are a strong team and will be eager to do well in the FA Cup, but we showed what we can do at home today against a Premier League side. Before the break, we have two big games to get maximum points from. Now it’s about resting after 120 minutes; we need to recover, play Aston Villa, and go into the international break with good results.”
The two clubs last met in October, with Leeds securing a 2-1 win at Elland Road after racing to a 2-0 lead in the first 15 minutes.
This FA Cup quarter-final appearance is West Ham’s first since 2016, when Manchester United eliminated them in a replay. Nuno’s side is now just one win away from Wembley.
Bowen added on the competition:
“It’s a special feeling. From the QPR game in the third round, we knew we had a chance to turn the season around and build confidence. We’ve done that in the Premier League and tonight was no different. Every FA Cup game has gone to extra time, but we’re determined to reach the final. Silverware at this club is a dream, and the FA Cup is one I really want to win. There’s a long way to go, but tonight is a big night for everyone involved.”
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