West Ham United: Vladimir Coufal punishment by Czech Republic causes anger as ‘not a crime’ verdict shared
We’re delighted to welcome former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie as our exclusive columnist. Each week he’ll be giving his views on the biggest talking points at the London Stadium…
Frank McAvennie has raged at the decision from the Czech Republic to send West Ham ace Vladimir Coufal home from international duty early.
The right-back, alongside compatriots Jakub Brabec and Jan Kuchta, was forced home for violating the country’s internal rules [Sky Sports, 20 November].
The three internationals breached the Czech Republic’s rules by visiting a nightclub in Olomouc last Saturday (18 November).
Speaking to West Ham Zone, McAvennie said: “Rules are meant to be broken. He’s out with two of his teammates having a drink, my god, it’s not a crime. There are still some players out there who like to go for a beer.
“It won’t affect West Ham, that’s for sure, because West Ham supporters won’t be having a go at him for going for a beer.
“Listen, I got in trouble during international breaks for doing things, it’s a shame that it is getting highlighted. He’ll get back to London and the fans will welcome him back and that will be it.”
Moyes had an international break to forget, with Coufal joined in the headlines by star winger Jarrod Bowen and Michail Antonio.
The former left Gareth Southgate’s England squad early with a knee problem, with the latter also injuring his knee while on duty for Jamaica.
It has left the Hammers manager with plenty of big decisions to make when they travel to Turf Moor to take on Burnley on Saturday (25 November).
In other West Ham news, a journalist has told a “red-hot” Hammers ace what he “must” do to land a Euro 2024 place.