West Ham United defender Thilo Kehrer is ready to face German opposition in Europa League opponents Freiburg tonight.

The Germany international knows plenty about Freiburg.

“I know SC Freiburg pretty well," he said. “I grew up not too far from here. It's a local club that has grown itself from within, from the Academy, with the structure that they have, which is very good, very disciplined and very encouraging for younger players here. The younger players in the first team squad here are coming through the Academy and from this region, so they have their own identity.

“This club works so hard. A few years ago, this was a club that fought in the Bundesliga and had a year or two in the second division too. And now they have had a few years consecutively playing in Europe and competing in the top third of the Bundesliga. From my side, I can only say hats off to them."

He also said: “We're very excited to be back on our travels in the Europa League. We still have our memories from last year in Europe. Everybody at the Club knows how special it is and what a privilege it is to play in Europe. For us players, it is the same.

“It's an important competition for me. Every minute I get, I try to give the best I can of myself for the team.

“I would have to say this is one of the most balanced squads I've been involved in during my career. The chemistry we have encourages competition, but in a healthy way. Everyone is aware that the competition is there and everybody has his own qualities, that they try to bring to the team so the whole group can profit. I would say this is a pretty special group."