David Moyes says he will continue to use the Carabao Cup as a platform for offering competitive football to those on the periphery of the first team.
Moyes leads his team out against Hull City tonight as a reward for disposing of Charlton Athletic in last week's 3-0, 2nd Round win.And the manager maintained he is still eager to progress in the competition despite allowing several first team players to sit the game out.
"These early rounds of the competition are coming thick and fast and we were delighted to have progressed through to the 3rd Round," he told whufc.com. "I thought the players showed a good level of performance in that game and we will be looking for something similar against Hull tonight.
"These games are vital because they give an opportunity for players who may not have featured in the early Premier League matches to show us what they can do in a competitive environment. They can give the younger players invaluable experience as well as help bringing others back to full match fitness, such as Robert Snodgrass.
"I am keen to stay in the Carabao Cup as long as we possibly can, but I understand that there are many other clubs keen to do the same. As far this cup tie is concerned, momentum is important. Every time we cross that white line, we aim to be competitive and winning breeds optimism and confidence."
Moyes also referred to the links between the two clubs and the personell who have, in recent seasons, represented both clubs.
"The two clubs are well connected, with Jarrod Bowen, Robert Snodgrass and a young Mark Noble having played for the club, while their manager Grant McCann, spent seven seasons at West Ham early in his playing career," he added.
"Hull did very well to get past Leeds United via a penalty shootout in the last round. The condensed season means that there will be a result tonight with penalties coming at the end of the game if necessary.
"I believe that, given the restraints this season, everyone is happy with that format. For this season in particular, this has to be the best and most practical way to proceed."
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