Declan Rice and Manuel Lanzini react to West Ham star Tomas Soucek’s announcement
Tomas Soucek has taken to social media with an emotional message after a significant development for the West Ham and Czechia star.
The 30-year-old midfielder is a much-loved figure at the London Stadium, popping up with several important goals over the last six seasons and breaking out his famous celebration.
However, Keith Hackett did tell Football Insider that Soucek’s opener against Everton was “illegal” as West Ham came away from Goodison Park with a single point last weekend.
He is well aware that he might not be as talented or as skilful as some other central players in the Premier League but he makes up for it with heart and desire, leaving everything out on the pitch.
That is exactly why the Hammers fanbase have become so attached to the Czechia international, who has racked up 77 caps for his country, and is once again being recognised for his efforts.
Tomas Soucek crowned Czechia Player of the Year once again
After being named Czechia’s Player of the Year for 2024, Soucek took to Instagram [18 March], writing: “Soccer Player of the Year 2024. Thank you so much to everyone who has supported me, both in the beginning and now in my career!
“It’s a great honour for me to win this individual trophy for the fourth time. I am very glad that I live my football story with you. Thank you very much to the fans, the enthusiasts from the youngest to the adults.
“Football is special with you. I believe that our journey does not end and we will continue to enjoy football together,” a message that Arsenal star and ex-Irons captain Declan Rice liked.
Konstantinos Mavropanos, who West Ham fans are ready to get rid of, also liked the post, as did former favourites Manuel Lanzini and Pablo Fornals.
Graham Potter just getting started in new West Ham era
It has been a rather difficult adjustment to life after David Moyes, having parted ways with Julen Lopetegui so quickly and finally bringing a figure who can be trusted to deliver.
The former Brighton and Chelsea boss’ tenure has not started the easiest of ways, winning just three of his nine Premier League games in charge, but any fears of being relegated have been dissolved.
With 17 points separating the Hammers from the dreaded dropzone, Potter can already be thinking ahead to next season and the club’s plans for the summer transfer window.
| Premier League standings | Points |
| 16. West Ham | 34 |
| 17. Wolves | 26 |
| 18. Ipswich Town | 17 |
West Ham could possibly welcome Michail Antonio back to the squad at some point as he continues to recover from his horrific car accident, but the Irons are still likely to need a brand-new striker.
Jarrod Bowen has been one of the most consistent performers at the London Stadium over the last few seasons, but with Mohammed Kudus and Lucas Paqueta struggling, he needs support in the final third.
David Sullivan will once again be expected to open his pockets if Potter’s reign is to work in East London, but considering how well he did with Brighton, some bargain deals could be on the cards this summer.