Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer dazzled by Tomas Soucek in West Ham 3-1 win v West Brom
Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer applauded the efforts of Tomas Soucek on Wednesday night as West Ham moved a step closer to securing European football.
A 3-1 success in the West Midlands means the Irons need just one point against Southampton on Sunday to be sure of bringing Europa League football to the London Stadium next season.
The scoreline at The Hawthorns looked pretty comfortable but it was far from that as the visitors had to show a lot of grit and determination to come back from a goal down, and Soucek played a big role in that as he struck the crucial equaliser just before half-time.
Lineker and Shearer lauded his talents on BBC Match of the Day [19/05/21] after watching him inspire the Irons.
“A large part of that success goes down to Tomas Soucek, he’s been brilliant,” Lineker said.
Shearer exclaimed: “What a signing he’s been, he can protect and be a threat in the box, he’s in the right place for a tap-in.
“As we know West Ham offer a threat from set-pieces and a lot of that comes down to him and Craig Dawson.”
Lineker added: “He deserves a lot of credit, he’s joint-top goalscorer with Michail Antonio.”
Midfield maestro
The Czech Republic international has been a breath of fresh air since he arrived from Slavia Prague in January 2020.
He made a significant impression in his first few months at the club, earning a permanent deal last July after three goals in 13 games.
But he’s taken his game to new heights this season, scoring ten times in 37 Premier League outings while protecting the backline with some combative displays in midfield alongside Declan Rice.
Soucek must be in with a shout of being included in the Team of the Season after some breathtaking performances in the 2020/21 campaign, he’s been that good.
It was vital he stood up to the task on Wednesday night as Albion bombarded our box from set-plays and he did just that while proving to be a danger in the opposition’s box once more.
In other West Ham news, ‘Terrific’ – BBC pair blown away by ‘Fabulous’ Irons star v West Brom.
Be sure to follow West Ham Zone on Facebook and Twitter for 24/7 updates on the Hammers and more exclusive interviews with Frank McAvennie.